Annual well-child visits: Essential for healthy development

As families enter a new school year, health experts are reminding parents and caregivers of the importance of scheduling annual well-child visits, a vital step in supporting children’s health and overall development.

These yearly appointments are an opportunity to monitor children’s growth physically, mentally and socially, as well as to catch any concerns early. Taking a moment to schedule that annual well-child visit could be one of the most important steps parents and caregivers take for their child’s long-term well-being.

Over the past several years, the rate of well-child visits has increased slightly, but still lags behind pre-pandemic figures. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 80% of children nationwide participated in an annual well-visit. During the pandemic, that percentage dropped. While the most recent data shows a modest recovery to about 79%, there is still work to do to help ensure all children get the care they need and are reaching important milestones.¹

“Regular checkups are a cornerstone of pediatric health,” said Brooke Hall, Registered Nurse, Certified Care Manager for UnitedHealthcare. “They don’t just help families track growth — they also provide an early warning system for developmental or health concerns, an opportunity to discuss vaccinations, and guidance for healthy living.”

Well-child visits begin at birth and continue through the teen years. From newborn through 12 months, babies should have seven well-child visits.

During these appointments, a doctor will:

• Assess development
• Conduct hearing and vision tests
• Screen blood for anemia (at appropriate visits)
• Check lead exposure
• Monitor behavioral observations

As children grow, visits are recommended at 15, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months, followed by yearly checkups after age 3. During these appointments, health care providers continue many earlier screenings and add new ones, such as oral health checks and social, emotional and language assessments.

Immunizations are another critical element of a well-child visit. Vaccines can help protect children from serious illnesses and help create a safe circle for vulnerable babies and communities.

“Staying up to date on recommended immunizations is one of the simplest ways parents can safeguard their children’s health,” Brooke said.

As children get older, the number of required vaccines often decreases, but annual flu shots and other immunizations, including HPV and meningitis vaccines, should be considered.

Families looking for more information can visit uhc.com/childrenswellness for resources on preparing for well-child visits and understanding immunizations.

UnitedHealthcare also offers support for maternal and child health at everypregnancy.com.

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan members may be eligible for care management programs to help keep both parents and children healthy throughout pregnancy and the first 15 months of life.