Pediatrics

What's involved in pediatric medicine?

Pediatric medicine focuses on the health and wellness of children under 21. A pediatric doctor provides the tools to keep your child healthy as they grow by providing regular screenings and preventive care.

Wellness checks are a vital component of pediatric medicine and follow a particular schedule based on your child's age. In their first year of life, your child should have at least seven wellness visits to assess growth development and to get the necessary vaccinations.

As your child gets older, these visits typically slow down, with only one a year necessary after the age of three. These appointments are crucial as your child grows to ensure they're meeting vital milestones and to raise any concerns you have with their health.

The team also evaluates your child's growth and nutrition to ensure they develop as they should. Vaccinations and physical exams are preventive measures the team offers at each well-child visit.

When do kids need a pediatric physical?

School physicals are another essential aspect of pediatric medicine. Most schools require a physical at the start of your child's education and certain milestones as they progress.

Your specific state and school typically have a form you bring along to your child's physical for the team to fill out and return to the school district. 

During a school physical, the team assesses your child's overall health and the need for any preventive care. You can expect the following during the appointment:

• Medical history review
• Blood pressure and pulse check
• Height and weight check
• Vision and hearing exam
• Heart and lung exam
• Evaluation of reflexes
• Abdominal exam

If the team finds any irregularities in your child's physical exam, they investigate further and may suggest a specialist for specific issues. 

What vaccines are necessary for pediatrics?

Vaccinations are another essential aspect of your child's health. Vaccines keep your child safe from dangerous and sometimes life-threatening illnesses.

The CDC recommends following a vaccination schedule for your child, which the team also follows. Keeping your child vaccinated protects them from severe illnesses such as:

• Chickenpox
• Diphtheria
• Pertussis
• Polio
• Mumps
• Measles
• Rubella
• Tetanus
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Rotavirus
• Influenza
• Meningococcal
• RSV
• Whooping cough

The team at Puget Sound Medical Associates provides your child with every vaccine they need as they grow. 

Call the Puget Sound Medical Associates team today to schedule a well-child visit or request a consultation on the website.