What is a well-child visit?
A well-child visit is a regular checkup when your child is healthy. These visits happen often in the first few years and then about once a year. They give the doctor a chance to catch problems early and give you time to ask questions.
- Height, weight and growth checks
- Developmental milestones, such as talking, walking and learning
- A full physical exam, plus vision and hearing checks as needed
- Vaccines that are due
- Advice on sleep, nutrition, safety and behavior
Which vaccines does my child need?
Vaccines protect children from serious illnesses such as measles, whooping cough and polio. Dr. Le follows the current CDC childhood vaccine schedule and will let you know which shots your child is due for at each visit.
If your child is behind on vaccines, or you have questions or concerns about them, bring them up. We are happy to talk through what each vaccine does and help your child catch up.
Can I bring my child in when they are sick?
Yes. We see children for common illnesses and minor injuries, including fevers, ear pain, sore throats, coughs, rashes and small cuts. Urgent visits are available Monday through Saturday, so you can often be seen the same day.
Because Dr. Le already knows your child, he can compare how they are doing now with past visits.
Why choose a family doctor for your child?
With a family medicine doctor, your child does not have to switch doctors at 18. Parents, children and grandparents can all be seen at the same practice here in Bluefield, which makes it easier to share family history and schedule visits together.
A doctor who knows the whole family can also notice patterns, such as allergies, asthma or other conditions that run in families, and plan care with that in mind.
How does care change in the teen years?
Teen checkups cover growth and puberty, but also topics like sleep, stress, mood, school, sports and healthy relationships. As teens get older, the doctor may spend part of the visit talking with them one on one. This helps teens learn to take charge of their own health and feel comfortable asking questions.
Parents are still an important part of care. Dr. Le will talk with you about what to expect and how information is shared.
What to expect at your visit
- We measure your child’s height, weight and vital signs.
- Dr. Le asks about eating, sleeping, behavior and school.
- Your child gets a gentle, age-appropriate physical exam.
- Any vaccines that are due are given.
- You get guidance on what to expect before the next visit.
Common questions about pediatric care
How often does my child need a checkup?
Babies have several checkups in their first year, and toddlers have them every few months. After about age 3, most children need a well-child visit once a year. Dr. Le follows the schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and will tell you when your child is due.
Can a family doctor see my newborn?
Yes. Family medicine doctors are trained to care for newborns, children and teens as well as adults. Dr. Le can see your baby for early checkups, vaccines and sick visits, and continue caring for them as they grow up.
What should I bring to my child’s appointment?
Bring your child’s vaccine record, any medicines they take, your insurance card and a list of questions. For a first visit, records from a previous doctor are very helpful. School or sports forms that need to be filled out can be brought too.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.