General Pediatrics

General pediatric care helps your child thrive as they grow and develop. American Academy of Pediatrics board-certified pediatricians Karen Prentice, DO, FAAP, Kristin Shepherd, MD, FAAP, and the team provide the best pediatric care available in Peoria, Arizona, at Great Destinations Pediatrics. If you need general pediatrics for your infant, child, or teen, call today. You can also schedule an appointment using the online tool.

General Pediatrics Q & A

  • What is included in general pediatrics?

    The general pediatrics care offered at Great Destinations Pediatrics focuses on the unique health care needs of babies, children, and teenagers. The team of providers follows the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when it comes to well-child care.


    The doctors provide the most up-to-date screenings, vaccinations, and wellness advice available. Their integrative approach means they focus extra attention on supporting your child’s nutrition, physical activity, mind-body health, and sleep habits.

  • What happens during general pediatrics appointments?

    Exactly what happens at your child’s pediatric appointment depends on their age and stage of development. However, you can generally expect the following:


    Check of vitals

    A medical assistant will check your child’s weight, height, temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Blood pressure is not usually measured in infants, babies, or toddlers under 3 years old.


    Review of symptoms and history

    The team at Great Destinations Pediatrics updates your child’s medical history, including surgeries or major illnesses they’ve experienced since their last visit. They’ll also check in regarding medications and lifestyle, including diet and exercise.


    This is the time to ask questions about your child’s health or development.


    Physical exam

    The doctor evaluates your child’s skin and overall appearance. They assess the health of their eyes, ears, nose, and throat, as well as their abdomen, limbs, respiration, reflexes, spine, and heartbeat. An external check of the genitals is also included as part of a general physical exam.

  • How often should my child have a general pediatrics appointment?

    You’ll schedule your first general pediatrics appointment when your child is 2-3 days old. Then, they’ll come in at age:


    2 weeks

    2 months

    4 months

    6 months

    9 months

    1 year

    15 months

    18 months 

    2 years 

    2½ years

    3 years

    After your child reaches 3, the frequency of appointments slows down. A yearly wellness check is recommended for children and teens for the rest of their growth and development. If your child has a chronic condition or a health problem like asthma or diabetes, they’ll need to come in more frequently than once a year.


    To schedule your general pediatrics appointment at Great Destinations Pediatrics, call today or use the online tool.

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