What: Protects against seasonal influenza (flu), which can lead to serious complications in children with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma or diabetes. 

How: Flu vaccines are given as an injection (approved for use in children 6 months and older) or as a nasal spray (approved for use in children 2 years and older) 

When: Children and teens should receive a flu vaccine every flu season. September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated, with a goal of vaccination by the end of October whenever possible.

What: It is recommended that all children age 12 and older be screened annually for depression, a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness

How: Confidential conversations between patient and provider, plus validated questionnaires

Why: Early detection allows for earlier management of depression symptoms

What: This screening detects any hearing changes or hearing loss

How: Your teen will be asked to wear a set of headphones and respond to sound

Why: Early detection of hearing loss allows us to address concerns promptly and support speech, language, and learning development

What: A short set of questions we ask all families about things like food, housing, transportation, and safety

How: Questionnaire during pre-registration or check-in that takes 2-3 minutes

Why: When we understand your child’s environment, we can better support their growth, behavior, and success at home and at school.

What: It is recommended that all children age 11 and older be screened annually for tobacco, alcohol, and drug use

How: Confidential conversations between patient and provider, plus validated questionnaires

Why: Early detection allows for intervention before experimentation turns into addiction or long-term health complications

What: This screening checks your child’s vision and how their eyes are working together

How: We may ask your teen to read an eye chart to identify letters and images

Why: Teens should be screened annually for vision changes

What: It is recommended that teens age 16 and older be screened for chlamydia and gonorrhea, sexually transmitted infections that can cause life-long issues (including infertility) if left untreated

How: A simple urine test

Why: Chlamydia and gonorrhea are typically asymptomatic, which means patients generally have no symptoms to indicate something is wrong and won’t know they are infected until the lab test confirms it.

What: It is recommended that teens age 16 and older be screened for HIV, a sexually transmitted infection that targets the immune system

How: A blood test

Why: HIV can only be detected through a lab test. If infection is detected, management can start right away.

What: A simple non-fasting blood test that checks cholesterol levels, including HDL, LDL, and triglycerides

How: Typically done at our office or a lab as part of the 18 years well visit

Why: High cholesterol often starts in childhood and may not cause symptoms. Identifying it early can help lower your teen’s risk of heart disease and stroke as they get older