UnitedHealthcare Discusses Kids Preventative Health

UHC Discusses Kids Preventative Health

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, there were nearly 35,000 births in our State in 2021.

Parents CAN help their children take steps daily to keep their bodies healthy, like seeing their physicians regularly and taking their vaccines on time.

"United Healthcare's mission is to help people live healthier lives. That is why we encourage our parents to ensure their children get Well Child visits, which is so important that they are scheduled," Dr. Teresa Wesley, Chief Medical Officer of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kansas, informs the anchors and audience.

Dr. Wesley says, "During those Well Child visits, it is very important to have those screenings to touch base on those milestones and to take care of concerns we, as parents, have regarding raising our children. The sooner that we have those concerns addressed - the better."

"Amazingly, we have the opportunity to sit down and speak with your primary care physician or pediatrician to establish that relationship and ensure that you share ALL of your concerns with your provider," Dr. Wesley continued.

Grace: Another Question frequently asked is what are Well Child Visits?

"Generally, babies from zero to fifteen months have at least six Well Child visits, and 3-years old and above an annual visit each year. During those timeframes, you will have the opportunity to sit and speak to your provider, your pediatrician, about where your child is in those milestones." Dr. Wesley states.

Going on, "You will talk about where they are regarding their height, weight, their vision, their hearing, and other developmental milestones. And also if there is a question or a concern - you know, being a parent is hard - it is challenging but also very rewarding. It is wonderful to have that relationship with your provider to say, 'Hey, is this normal? What is going on with my child?' to get the answers you need and to have that reassurance as a parent."

Bill: Why is it so important that we get our children vaccinated?

Dr. Wesley answers, "Great, great question - I am so glad you asked that. ON TIME vaccinations throughout childhood are essential. They are very important, and they help your child have the immunity they need before they are actually exposed to an illness that may be out in the community.

"Also, vaccinations are one of the best things we can do to ensure that our children, our families, and our communities are kept safe from contagious diseases." Dr. Teresa Wesley, Chief Medical Officer of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kansas