Health forms, vaccinations, growth charts - these are the typical aspects of an annual well-child visit with a pediatrician. However, apart from these aspects, a child’s provider can offer guidance on nutrition, sleep, education and more.
New findings from the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health indicate that parents could benefit from enhancing their interactions with their child’s health care provider.
Conducted in August and September, the poll surveyed 1,331 parents with children aged 1 to 12. The results revealed that 92% of parents had scheduled a well-child visit in the last two years. Furthermore, most parents (67%) preferred continuity of care by seeing the same provider for well visits. Although 47% were willing to wait longer for an appointment with their regular provider, only 25% of parents frequently made a list of questions before the visit.
Preparing for a well-child visit is crucial, yet more than half of parents surveyed noted that they only occasionally made a list of questions for the visit. Additionally, 21% mentioned that they often documented changes in their child's health, and 22% said they encouraged children aged 6-12 to come up with questions for the provider.
Since most children attend regular well-child visits and families generally have positive relationships with their health care providers, these visits present a valuable opportunity for parents to seek advice and for pediatricians to offer essential information.
The Purpose of Well-Child Visits
Sarah Clark, a researcher and co-director of the Mott Poll, emphasized the dual role of well-child visits - assessing the child’s growth, development, and potential issues, and educating families on maintaining the child’s safety and health.
According to Dr. Ijeoma Opara, a pediatrician and educator, well-child visits play a vital role in early condition detection, preventive care like vaccinations, and providing parents with reassurance, guidance, and answers to their queries.
Tips for Maximizing Well-Child Visits
- Make A List Of Questions: Dr. Jen Trachtenberg suggests listing concerns prior to the visit, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, behavior, and more.
- Prepare Your Child: Help your child understand what to expect during the visit through books, videos, and role-playing.
- Encourage Older Children To Ask Questions: Involve older children in discussions with the provider, fostering independence and a positive relationship with their health.
- Take Notes About Changes: Document any changes in your child's health, behavior, or environment to discuss during the visit.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on health topics that may impact your child, seeking information from reliable sources and discussing concerns with the provider.
- Find A Provider You Trust: Building a trusting relationship with the provider is essential for effective communication and comprehensive care for your child.
Maximizing well-child visits involves thorough preparation, open communication, and active involvement from both parents and children. These visits serve as a prime opportunity for parents to address concerns, seek advice, and promote their child’s overall well-being.
Importance of Well-Child Visits - Boys Town Pediatrics
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