In a digital world where health advice is just a click away, many families are choosing to skip regular well visits and checkups. The convenience of online resources has led some to believe that in-person doctor visits are no longer necessary. But what are we really missing when we opt out?

In the latest episode of Ask the Doc: No Appointment Needed, Dr. Scarlet Constant—Board Certified Pediatrician and founder of Constant Care Pediatrics in Miami—dives deep into this very concern, sharing why routine surveillance visits are not only important but critical to your child’s long-term health.

Establishing a Lifelong Health Foundation

One of the primary goals of a routine visit is to build a foundation of continuity of care. These visits allow pediatricians to establish a relationship with both parent and child and to track health trends over time. As Dr. Constant notes, “If there are any deviations from the norm in the future, we’re able to address them quickly.”

What Happens During a Well Visit?

Well-child visits are not just for vaccinations—they encompass a wide range of assessments:

1. Growth Monitoring

From birth through adolescence, pediatricians track height, weight, BMI, and blood pressure. This helps detect underlying issues such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal disorders, or even chronic illnesses that may not yet be diagnosed.

2. Developmental Tracking

Doctors evaluate cognitive, behavioral, social, and motor skill milestones. Many of these assessments occur subtly during play or conversation—interactions that offer valuable insights into a child’s development.

3. Sensory Screenings

By engaging in activities and play, doctors can identify early signs of hearing or vision issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

4. Behavioral and Emotional Health

After age two, emotional well-being becomes a larger part of the pediatric evaluation. Dr. Constant emphasizes the importance of direct communication with the child to gauge their mental health: “We ask how school is going, whether they have friends, if they’re happy… these conversations provide key emotional insights.”

5. Building Trust

Consistent visits foster a trusted relationship between physician, parent, and child—critical when navigating more serious health concerns.

Answering Your Questions: Pediatric Q&A Highlights

Is a Fever in a Young Infant an Emergency?

Yes. A fever in a baby under three months of age is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate evaluation to rule out serious infections like sepsis or pneumonia.

What If My Child Is Less Social Than Others?

Every child is different. While shyness may be normal, it’s important to discuss any concerns with your pediatrician to rule out developmental disorders.

Are All Those Vaccines Necessary?

Absolutely. Dr. Constant explains that the vaccine schedule is carefully designed to build lifetime immunity. Modern combination vaccines also reduce the number of injections while offering broad protection against serious illnesses.

Is Breastfeeding Enough for My 3-Month-Old?

If your baby is gaining weight, urinating, and stooling regularly, it’s a good sign. Regular visits help confirm this through accurate weight and growth chart tracking.

How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?

While the old guideline of “no more than two hours” is outdated due to virtual schooling, Dr. Constant advises monitoring content and setting limits to protect children’s social development and eyesight.

Why Is My Baby Always Sick After Starting School?

Frequent illness is common, but being fully vaccinated, getting proper sleep, and good nutrition can boost immunity. Dr. Constant adds that vaccines offer not just protection against specific diseases, but also enhance the immune system’s overall response.

How Can I Track My Newborn’s Development?

Start by choosing a pediatrician you trust. During each visit, your doctor will walk you through what milestones to expect next. You can also consult resources like the AAP’s Bright Futures for helpful guidance.

What Can I Do About My Toddler’s Picky Eating?

Persistence and variety are key. Avoid turning mealtimes into battlegrounds. Talk to your pediatrician about your child’s growth and nutrition to rule out deficiencies.

Should I Let My Baby Cry It Out?

Not without understanding why they’re crying. Frequent crying in a six-month-old may signal hunger, colic, or an underlying issue. Always consult your doctor first.

Watch the full episode of Ask the Doc: No Appointments Needed here: https://youtube.com/live/GZ3LUnN854A