RIVERSIDE, California, September 12, 2023 — If it’s been a while since your child saw a doctor or other medical professional, you’re not alone. The American Heart Association, the leading voluntary organization devoted to longer, healthier lives, and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) say it’s a good time to connect with your child’s doctor to schedule any check-ups you may have put off.
“Annual check-ups with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional are critical to managing your child’s development,” said American Heart Association Inland Empire and Orange County Board President, Pranav M. Patel, M.D., Chief, Division of Cardiology, UC Irvine. “It’s where you can be sure your child is receiving the recommended or required immunizations, track growth progress and address any health concerns you or your child might have.”
With today’s busy schedules, fear and financial challenges, many kids don’t have regular doctor’s visits on the calendar. But well-child visits are not something to put off.
According to the American Heart Association, doctor visits are critical for tracking a child’s growth, addressing potential risk factors for heart disease and other conditions, and keeping their immunizations up to date. The important thing is to find a healthcare professional that both parent and child are comfortable with to help kids learn long-term habits for better health.
“Here in the Inland Empire, IEHP is supporting the American Heart Association’s efforts to get parents to return to routine child health care as a sponsor of the organization’s ‘Doctor, it’s been too long’ outreach campaign,” said Takashi Wada, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at IEHP.
It’s also the right time for healthcare professionals to discuss potential risk factors that may show up on routine tests.
“Even kids can develop heart disease,” added Patel “Regular checkups are an important way to identify, treat or prevent potential health issues before they become more serious medical conditions.”
A trusted source, like a doctor or health care professional, can steer kids towards healthier habits and help offer advice about the dangers of vaping, drug use and other potentially dangerous behaviors. An established relationship with a primary care doctor or a health care professional can help a teen develop trust over time, which can help a child feel comfortable talking to them.
Don’t delay. Make an appointment today – set your heart on it and get yourself and your loved one back to the doctor. For more information, visit https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/doctor-its-been-too-long
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Daniel Ruacho 480-773-2355 or daniel.ruacho@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
