Well Child Exam

A well-child exam is a parent’s first line of defense against complications from pediatric illnesses. Set Apart Pediatrics offers well-child exams for kids of all ages to ensure they’re healthy and developing properly. Dr. Dudley and Sara provide physical exams, immunizations, nutritional recommendations, and other preventive services to support your child’s long-term wellness. They also provide resources to reduce their risk of acute illness and chronic disease. Call the Decatur, Alabama, office to schedule a well-child exam or request an appointment online today. 

What is a well-child exam?

A well-child exam is a preventive exam that your child needs, even when they feel well.

The goal of a well-child exam is to identify underlying health issues before they cause complications. Early identification of certain pediatric conditions helps your child get the treatment they need before the condition gets worse.

Set Apart Pediatrics offers complete well-child exams for children of all ages. Dr. Dudley performs a variety of assessments to evaluate your child’s physical and mental health, growth, and development.

She also takes a whole-body approach to care and provides recommendations for your child to optimize their wellness.

When should I schedule a well-child exam?

The frequency of well-child exams depends on your child’s age.

Set Apart Pediatrics follows the guidance of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which recommends visits every few months for children until age 3. From age 4 to 21, well-child visits should occur once a year.

Dr. Dudley also offers other types of preventive exams for children, including sports physicals that you should schedule in addition to well-child visits. Each physical prioritizes your child’s overall wellness but focuses on different goals.

What happens during a well-child exam?

During a well-child exam at Set Apart Pediatrics, you can expect Dr. Dudley to discuss your child’s recent health, including their eating habits, sleep routine, and behaviors.

She also completes a physical exam to check your child’s height, weight, blood pressure, and other vital signs. She also evaluates your child’s muscle strength, joint flexibility, and spinal alignment.

A well-child exam is also a good time to get your child’s immunizations updated to protect against contagious diseases. Dr. Dudley discusses which vaccinations they need and offers resources to help you make the best choices for your child’s health.

Dr. Dudley also emphasizes proper nutrition and lifestyle habits that set your child up for long-term wellness. She can recommend strategies to keep them active and healthy based on their age and health history.

Call Set Apart Pediatrics to schedule a well-child exam or book an appointment online today.