Early care is essential

Routine checkups are essential to caring for a new baby. Such “well-baby” visits should occur at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months of age. During these visits, your baby will be given a complete physical examination to assess growth and development. Your doctor will record height, weight, head circumference, and other important information. Hearing, vision, and other tests are part of some visits. Special attention is paid to your baby’s achievement of developmental milestones. Well-baby visits are a great time for you to form a comfortable relationship with your child’s doctor.

Of course, you should schedule an appointment with your child’s doctor any time your baby is sick or if you are concerned about his or her health or development.

You can learn about all of the preventive health guidelines for children by visiting our website at upmchealthplan.com. Select the “Health & Wellness” tab, “Preventive Care,” and “Guidelines.” You can search the guidelines by your child’s age.