A Healthy Baby - By: PaulB

Your baby needs to see the doctor on a regular basis. These visits are important for her health and development. They are also opportunities to learn more about your baby. Your doctor can discuss with you whether your baby:

• Is eating well

• Is growing normally

• Is developing social, learning and physical skills properly

While you are at the doctor’s office, you can ask questions about taking care of your baby. You can also talk about any problems you may have being a parent.

During the visit, your doctor will:

• Do a physical exam

• Check her growth and development

• Check her ability to move

• Give her shots to help protect her against a number of diseases

• Do a hearing and eye exam

• Check her height, weight and head size

• Check what she is eating

• Treat any medical problems

At your baby’s two-month checkup, she will be given shots to protect her against illnesses. Ask the doctor or nurse to tell you what kinds of reactions your baby may have to the shots. Also, find out what to do about those reactions. It is a good idea to keep a record of all your baby’s shots.

Find a doctor you like and feel comfortable with. Going to the same doctor each time is a good idea, if you can. Using the same doctor makes it easier to keep track of your baby’s health and growth.

If your baby is eligible for Medicaid, she can get free checkups. You can call your local social welfare, health or family services office to see if you qualify for Medicaid services.

If you don’t have health insurance for your baby, you can learn about resources in your state by contacting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Insure Kids Now Program at 1-877-KIDSNOW. You can also visit their Web site at http://www.insurekidsnow.gov for more information about free or low-cost health insurance for children. Many public libraries offer free access to the Internet and provide help for first-time users.

About the Author

Your baby needs to see the doctor on a regular basis. These visits are important for child health and child development.

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