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.