Preventive Health

What is pediatric preventive health care?

Preventive care focuses on identifying health concerns as early as possible. Early diagnosis often makes treatment more effective. It can help keep the condition from progressing and, in some cases, even prevent or reverse it.

Some common services that are part of pediatric preventive care include:

• Developmental screenings
• Immunizations and vaccinations
• Nutritional counseling
• Routine physical exams

Preventive health care looks different for each patient. Your child’s health needs change as they grow, and regular wellness checkups keep you, your child, and your pediatrician connected.

Why is preventive health care important?

Preventive care is one of the best ways to ensure your child is growing up as healthy as possible. Preventive care can detect and prevent disease and other medical issues before they progress.

Immunizations and vaccinations are often required for school and organized activities, but they are very important. These shots protect your child from many different preventable diseases without the need for them to get sick first.

Regular physical exams allow the pediatrician to monitor the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. If your child shows signs of a medical condition, they can get the care they need before the condition worsens or causes complications.

Children with developmental disabilities, like attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can benefit immensely from early intervention. Regular wellness checks give your pediatrician the opportunity to identify signs of developmental delays and recommend treatment as early as possible.

How often does my child need preventive health checkups?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends regular wellness checkups for children, from birth through the teenage years. Newborn care at Pediatrics of Southwest Houston includes your baby’s first doctor’s appointment and regular follow-ups spaced a few months apart during their first two years.

Beginning around age three, your child should have annual preventive exams with your pediatrician. The team offers preventive care for children and adolescents, including physicals for sports and school. 

Along with scheduled preventive care appointments, you should take your child to the pediatrician any time they’re sick or injured. Don’t hesitate to contact Pediatrics of Southwest Houston with any questions you have about the health of your family.

Is it time to schedule your child’s next wellness check? Call the office, or book an appointment online.

*We accept medicaid. Pediatricians are affiliated with Memorial Hermann.