Annual Physical

What is an annual physical?

An annual physical is a yearly assessment of your child's health. A provider at Bright Futures Pediatrics examines your son or daughter's physical, emotional, and developmental wellness.

Performing an annual physical helps your child’s pediatrician to:

• Detect early signs of illness 
  
• Track growth and development
  
• Identify increased health risks
  
• Administer immunizations
  
• Answer any questions you or your child may have
  
• Assess for developmental problems, including ADHD 
  
• Encourage healthy habits 
  
• Assess for signs of depression, anxiety, or other emotional concerns
  
• Educate both you and your child about age-specific information 
  
• Build trust between patient and provider

You should schedule your child's annual physical ahead of time when your child is well, rather than as a walk-in visit or when they’re sick. This is so that your provider has time to complete a thorough assessment and get the most accurate picture of their general health.

What happens during an annual physical?

When your child has an annual physical, Bright Futures Pediatrics first collects information from you regarding changes in their health, medications they are taking, and any concerns you may have.

Then, the team assesses your child's:

• Height and weight
  
• Vital signs
  
• Coordination and balance
  
• Hearing and vision
  
• Communication skills
  
• Nutritional status
  
• Emotional health
  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  
• Lungs and heart
  
• Digestion 
  
• Circulation
  
• Skin

Your pediatrician identifies any signs of illness or disease and shares any concerns they may have. They answer your questions and offer age-specific education to both you and your child.

When should my child start getting annual physicals?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children ages 3-21 should have annual physicals. For children younger than three, Bright Futures Pediatrics offers excellent baby and toddler wellness checks on a schedule determined by AAP guidelines.

Many families choose to schedule their child's annual physical near the beginning of the school year, as many districts require yearly exams. Bright Futures Pediatrics also offers sports physicals to ensure your child is healthy enough to play.

Annual physicals are essential in every stage of child development. They’re especially important during the adolescent years when children are beginning to develop their lifestyle habits and take responsibility for their own health. During an annual physical, your provider can help your child navigate puberty, practice safe sex, and develop healthy eating habits.

To schedule your child's comprehensive annual physical, call the nearest office or book an appointment online with Bright Futures Pediatrics today.