Marking Milestones with Wellstar’s Pediatricians

“When it comes to parents, I like to make sure they know we’re making decisions together. That way, we can provide unique, individualized care for their child,” said Wellstar Pediatrician Dr. Hebah Pranckun.

Your family’s pediatrician will serve as a knowledgeable, trustworthy contact for all your health questions.

“There is no greater partner than the patient and the parent, and no better skill in medicine than listening — truly listening to the needs of the patient,” said Wellstar Chief Pediatric Officer Dr. Avril Beckford.

“Children grow and change so much in their first few years of life,” said Wellstar Pediatrician Dr. Andrew Doyle. “Therefore, it is very important they see their pediatrician every few months during this time.”

In early childhood, your child see a doctor every few months at these ages:

• The first week (three to five days old)
• 1 month old
• 2 months old
• 4 months old
• 6 months old
• 9 months old
• 12 months old
• 15 months old
• 18 months old
• 2 years old (24 months)
• 2 ½ years old (30 months)

Then starting at age 3, children and adolescents should see their provider once a year through age 21, when they can switch to an adult primary care physician to continue their care. 

Healthy kids at every age

Your family’s pediatrician will get to know you and your child, personalizing care as they grow. Check with their doctor to ensure your kids are up-to-date on their immunizations and protected from disease. Flu shots are also recommended every year for everyone at least six months old.

• Ages 3 to 5.  Preschool-age children stay busy conquering milestones like climbing, learning shapes and colors, taking turns and showing affection for others. The pediatrician will ask if you have any concerns and discuss your child’s health, including eating habits and activity levels.
• Ages 5 to 12. At this age, your child is growing quickly — a little more than two inches a year — but your Wellstar provider will help you and your child keep up with the changes. Nutrition is especially important at this age as your child goes through their growth spurts. Sometime between the ages of seven and 11 in girls, and 9½ to 13½ in boys, children start experiencing hormonal changes, and your family’s provider can help your child stay healthy, both physically and mentally.
• Teens. At this age, patients may have their own questions about their health and will have the opportunity to speak with their provider alone. A check-up will include a physical exam, hearing and vision tests, and lab work such as blood tests. The exam will likely include several screenings such as checking for scoliosis, measuring blood pressure and listening to the heart with a stethoscope. 

To get your child all set for a healthy school year, visit wellstar.org/kidcare to learn more about our expert pediatricians and book an appointment online.