Annual physicals are a great value because you can catch health problems early, when they are easier and less expensive to treat. Preventive screenings also help you stay up to date on important immunizations and tests. Plus, with your Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas health insurance, many preventive services are covered in full. Just be sure to see an in-network health care provider and check your benefits before receiving care.

Your child should have annual preventive exams for several important reasons:

1. Monitoring growth and development. Your child’s doctor will track your child’s physical and behavioral growth. This provides early detection of any developmental delays or concerns.
2. Vaccination updates. Regular check-ups ensure that children receive necessary vaccinations on time, protecting them from serious diseases.
3. Health screenings. Annual exams include screenings for common childhood health issues such as vision and hearing problems, obesity, and dental health. Early detection can lead to timely interventions.
4. Establishing healthy habits. Annual visits are an opportunity to discuss nutrition, physical activity, and other healthy habits.
5. Building a relationship with healthcare providers. Annual visits help children become familiar with healthcare settings and build trust with their doctors, making future visits less stressful.

Help your child know what to expect

Annual physicals vary based on your child’s age, but typically, you can expect:

• Physical examination. Your child’s doctor will check height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, and other vital signs.
• Developmental assessment. Your child’s doctor will check developmental milestones appropriate for your child’s age.
• Vision and hearing tests. These screenings help detect issues early, before they contribute to problems in school or at home.
• Vaccination updates: Necessary vaccinations will be administered to keep your child on track. 
• Health counseling: Discussions on nutrition, physical activity, safety (such as wearing seat belts or helmets), and any concerns or questions the child or parent may have.
• Lab tests (if needed): Sometimes blood tests or other lab work might be necessary, depending on your child’s health history or specific concerns.

For older children and adolescents, these visits can be an opportunity to learn about risky behaviors related to substance abuse, addictions, health habits or sexually transmitted diseases. Your child’s doctor can provide a safe environment to support and guide adolescents into a productive and fulfilling adulthood. 

For parents, these visits are an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have about your child’s health or behavior and receive helpful guidance.  

Register or log into Blue Access

For details about how preventive services are covered by your specific health plan, check your contract and benefits information in BlueAccess.