Well-Child Care

The early months and years of your child’s life are crucial for their growth and development. We work with health care providers to support all children, including those with special needs, to ensure they grow and thrive.

Newborns

Welcome to Parenthood!

After enrolling your newborn in DEERS, you may need to call TRICARE East at 800-444-5445 if:

  • You’re not an active duty service member, and
  • The newborn’s parent is an ADSM, and
  • You need to change the baby’s health plan.

If none of these apply, your newborn automatically enrolls in TRICARE, and no action is needed. When you call, say "Enroll newborn" to reach the right representative.

Your First Well-Child Visit

Both parents should ideally attend early well-child visits. These check-ups help you build a relationship with the doctor and allow you to ask questions. Prepare a list of topics to discuss so you don’t forget anything important. If only one parent can attend, consider bringing a friend or relative to help with your baby and carry items.

What to Expect

Regular check-ups help you monitor your baby’s growth and development. Your pediatrician will check various developmental milestones.

Toddlers

During your child’s first two years, you’ll visit the doctor frequently. These visits help you address any questions or concerns. TRICARE covers well-child care for children under six years old.

During these visits, the doctor will check your child’s weight, growth, and physical and mental development. These visits often coincide with immunizations.

Schedule of Visits

  • First Year: 2-4 weeks, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months
  • Second Year: 15, 18, and 24 months
  • Beyond: Yearly check-ups, preferably around birthdays

Preparing for Visits

As your child grows, prepare to answer questions about:
  • Head control
  • Imitating sounds and expressions
  • Reaching for and mouthing objects
  • Rolling over
  • Sleep patterns
  • Feeding habits
  • Diaper changes

Always schedule the next well-child appointment before leaving to keep track of important milestones.

Well-Child Diaries

Your baby’s first year includes many milestones. Follow-up appointments are crucial. Use our well-child diaries for helpful checklists to monitor your baby’s progress:

2-month checklist

4-month checklist

6-month checklist

9-month checklist

12-month checklist

Middle Childhood

TRICARE supports your child’s growth through childhood and beyond. Each child is unique, and your healthcare team will provide tailored care. During middle childhood visits, expect various tests and screenings, including height, weight, blood pressure, and Body Mass Index.

Adolescence

As your child enters adolescence, regular check-ups remain vital for healthy development. These visits help with early diagnosis of health issues. Expect similar tests and screenings as in middle childhood.

TRICARE Coverage

See TRICARE Well-Child Care.

Last Updated 11/21/2024