We all think to visit the doctor when we’re feeling under the weather, but we all could benefit from regular check-ups—from kids to adults. Wellness visits are regular sit-downs with your primary care provider to review your health and overall well-being.
Wellness visits can also provide preventative care and serve as early detection should something get in the way of your overall health or your child’s growth and development.
Your provider might also ask you questions about your past medical history, current medication, or family medical history for a better understanding of your health risks. Similarly, you may also be asked about your diet, sleep schedule, habits and support system.
Physical exams consist of, but are not limited to, taking blood pressure and pulse; vision and hearing screenings; feeling neck for swollen lymph nodes or enlarged thyroid; feeling the abdomen for problems with spleen, liver and kidneys; listening to lung and heart sounds; and testing reflexes, joint flexibility and muscle strength.
No. A sports physical determines you child’s ability to safely participate in sports and should not take the place of your child’s routinely scheduled well-child visit with their primary care provider.
A well-child visit could include a sports exam. If your child needs a sports physical during their wellness visit, please let your provider know and the proper documentation will be provided.
Many insurance plans now cover up to 100% of wellness and immunization visits for you and your children. Check with your insurance provider for details of your plan’s coverage.