SerpApi.Org
Along with thinking about back-to-school supplies and schedules, Oregon doctors are reminding families now is the time to plan annual wellness appointments for their children.
Known as well-child visits, yearly checkups ensure kids are on track with vaccines, growth and overall development so they are ready physically and emotionally to go back to school.
Dr. Meredith Grover, pediatrician at The Oregon Clinic in Portland, said families sometimes skip visits when no vaccines are due but maintaining a relationship with a pediatrician is still important.
"For the growth of the children, to make sure their speech is on track, to make sure their physical development's on track. Are they moving in the way they're supposed to at their age? These are all things that a parent might not be aware of if they're only coming in for the shot visits," Grover outlined.
Grover pointed out looking at a child’s growth over time, including height and weight, gives important insights into nutrition and other issues. The more data, the better, Grover added, so yearly visits are helpful.
Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said checkups are not just about physical health. Randall pointed to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing about one in five children between the ages of 3 and 17 has had a behavioral or mental health diagnosis. Randall stressed mental health struggles can look different depending on the child's age.
"For a younger child, you might see issues with behavior or separation anxiety. Older children might have issues with stress or attention or friendships or grades," Randall explained.
Randall added mental health concerns have been increasing in children in the last couple years, data backed up by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Randall emphasized it is helpful to catch any issues early so kids can get the support they need.
