Recent studies indicate that <a href="https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-020-09411-z#:~:text=Prevalence%20of%20ACEs,%3B%20not%20shown%20in%20tables)." target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">almost 60% of children</a> growing up in the U.S. experience at least one adverse childhood experience before reaching the age of majority.A growing area of study suggests that children who experience more adverse events tend to also have greater health risks as adults, both in terms of mental and physical health. One way that social workers, doctors, therapists, and other medical providers can track that risk is the ACE score.The ACE score is based on the Adverse Childhood Events test, a simple quiz of 10 questions. The results of this quiz can help at-risk people get the care and help that they need to avoid health problems and mental health crises.But in order to understand the risks, it's important to understand ACE test score interpretation. <img src="https://images.sitesails.com/1/original/442db4d9-9753-48ba-8ec4-c31e301024a7-ace_test_score_interpretation.png" style="" width="508" height="266.2221529617509"> <h2>What is an ACE Score?</h2>We've written about the<a href="https://choicemd.com/health-news/what-is-the-ace-score" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">ACE Score before</a> in-depth, but to put things in simple terms, the ACE score is a person's results on the Adverse Childhood Experiences test.The test is 10 questions, based on the most common patterns of home dysfunction and abuse. The questions don't cover every adverse experience a child can have, of course. They work by detecting patterns in home dynamics that tend to go along with childhood trauma.Higher ACE score test results often mean a higher risk of mental illness and can also mean a higher risk of certain health problems. Lower ACE scores don't mean someone will never have a mental illness or health problems, but the risk of developing them as an adult is lower, and the effects tend to be easier to treat. <h2>How Does ACE Score Interpretation Work?</h2>An ACE score isn't a crystal ball, and it doesn't guarantee anyone's fate. Trauma-informed medical professionals use the ACE test as part of a bigger, longer conversation about health risks and mental health.One of the key issues with understanding the ACE test score meaning is that the test doesn't take positive things into account.As <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/03/02/387007941/take-the-ace-quiz-and-learn-what-it-does-and-doesnt-mean?t=1649622325309" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">experts can attest</a>, someone may have a high ACE score, but be healthy and successful, and mentally well.ACE score meaning has to take the positives into account as well. These are aspects of childhood experiences that help to foster resilience.For example, if you had a teacher, older family member, or someone close to you who helped you to feel valuable, protected, and worthy, this factor can help cushion you against harm.Interpreting the ACE score for a person is about the amount of trauma they lived through, but also about how much support they received. <h2>How Do Adverse Childhood Experiences Impact Health?</h2>It's easy to imagine how <a href="https://choicemd.com/blog/the-importance-of-ac-es" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">childhood trauma</a> can cause future mental health issues. The connection between ACE scores and physical health can be harder to understand.Adverse childhood events cause stress, which affects the body in a lot of different ways.Even in adults, too much stress can lead to high blood pressure, stomach problems, immune problems, and other issues. In children, the high levels of stress hormones are even more powerful.This is because a child's body and brain are still developing. The nervous system, the immune system, and organs are growing, forming, and changing. The stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol affect the way these systems develop.Having an ACE score of 4 can indicate <a href="https://stopabusecampaign.org/take-your-ace-test/what-does-your-ace-score-mean/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">a higher risk</a> of diseases like heart disease and stroke because the stress hormones in a child's body can cause high blood pressure. This damages the veins, arteries, and heart while they're still developing.These same hormones also affect the immune system. As a child, high stress hormones can prevent your immune system from developing properly, making you more prone to infections. These hormones can also lead to chronic inflammation.That inflammation can eventually cause autoimmune diseases, where the body's immune system attacks itself. <h2>Context Matters with ACE Scores</h2>Adverse childhood experiences can cause a lot of damage to the body and the mind. But these experiences aren't all the same, and the impact can vary based on other factors.Childhood neglect, food scarcity, and similar experiences are terrible, but access to nutritious food and clean clothes helps children heal. Abuse can cause huge stress and behavioral problems, but therapy can help kids learn to manage emotions.The important factor is time. The sooner a child's experience of neglect, abuse, or dysfunction is treated, the better the chance that they will recover.As mentioned before, a high number of adverse events doesn't mean a child is destined to grow up sick or mentally ill. Adults in the child's life who can help go a long way toward preventing lasting issues.Checking a child's ACE scores throughout the school years can help catch problems sooner rather than later.Although it's best if professionals do this checking, adults in the community can play a role as well. Checking in with kids in your community can help you find out who might be experiencing neglect or abuse, and help the kids get out of bad situations.Just by having access to safety and security, many childhood adverse experiences have less power. <h2>ACE Scores Help Adults and Children Get Better</h2>The ACE score meaning isn't a perfect prediction of someone's future health. However, ACE test score interpretation can help adults find out which kids might need protection. It can also help identify parents who need help.By knowing how to interpret ACE test scores, adults in the community can help children recover from adverse events and go on to lead healthier lives.ChoiceMD is committed to helping spread awareness of the impact of ACE scores for both children and adults. Learn more <a href="https://choicemd.com/about" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">about us</a> here.

ACE Test Score Interpretation: What Scores Do and Don't Mean

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How often should you go to the doctor for a medical checkup? According to a 2020 report,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/03/11/nearly-1-in-4-americans-are-skipping-medical-care-because-of-the-cost.html" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">one in every four Americans</a>skips regular medical checkups because of the cost. However, it's essential to stay on top of your health by getting regular checkups from your doctor. Checkups can help you figure out your risk factors for different medical conditions. They also screen for illnesses like cancer that can be deadly. Checkups can also help you stay healthy and avoid diseases that can cause serious health problems.However, it can be tough to figure out how often you should go for a checkup. This guide will help you determine the best schedule for your needs. <img src="https://images.sitesails.com/1/original/7d97564a-346e-41b1-9211-d486f19674dd-Smiling-happy-doctor-pointing.jpg" height="295.695989325495" width="443"> <h2>How Often Should Adults Get a Medical Checkup?</h2>There is no one answer to this question. The answer depends on your age, medical history, and current health condition. Generally speaking, adults should get a checkup at least once a year.&nbsp;However, if you are at high risk or have a chronic illness, you may need to go more often. Likewise, it is especially important to visit the doctor for regular checkups if you're uninsured or underinsured. You can't afford to miss out on screenings and assessments that could help prevent life-threatening illnesses down the road.Unfortunately, most uninsured or underinsured individuals do not see a doctor on a regular basis. This can lead to undiagnosed conditions and diseases that could have been prevented with the right treatment plan. It can also lead to high healthcare costs later on because untreated illnesses keep getting worse. <h2>How Often Should Children Get Checkups?</h2>Depending on a child's age and medical history, the recommended frequency of checkups varies. Babies and toddlers typically need checkups every few months until they turn three. For young kids, checkups should be scheduled once a year until they reach the age of ten.Once your child has reached puberty, you must get their health checked every few years up to 18 or 19. After this point, they can start getting adult-sized checkups and choosing doctors for themselves.When you&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/health-news/pediatrician-vs-family-doctor-which-is-best-for-your-child" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">choose a doctor</a>for yourself or your children, you want someone who will listen carefully and take the time to explain things in detail. This will ensure that all of your questions are answered before you leave their office. If the doctor prescribes medication, they should also provide information about what the medication is used for and any possible side effects. <h2>What Are the Benefits of a Regular Checkup?</h2>There are several advantages of getting a checkup from time to time, but some of the most important benefits include:<ol><li data-list="bullet">Evaluating your risk factors for different medical conditions</li><li data-list="bullet">Screening for terminal illnesses such as cancer</li><li data-list="bullet">Assessing your lifestyle and eating habits</li><li data-list="bullet">Preventing chronic and life-threatening illnesses</li><li data-list="bullet">Regularly monitor your health concerns to avoid getting worse symptoms or severe complications.</li><li data-list="bullet">staying updated on screening tests and vaccinations</li><li data-list="bullet">Preventing under-enrollment, over-enrollment, and expenses associated with untreated or severe conditions</li><li data-list="bullet">Developing and maintaining an open, honest relationship with your primary care physician</li></ol>Regular medical checkups are great for your health. Your doctor will educate you on ways to live a healthy, longer life while improving your health through the checkup. <h2>How to Prepare for Your Checkup Visit</h2>The best way to find a doctor for your checkup is to ask someone you know for a recommendation. If you can, try to find someone who has personal experience with the doctor.Once you have their information, look up their profile online. This will give you an idea of how they work and what other patients have said about their experience.You should also call the office ahead of time to find out what kind of questions will be asked during your appointment. You can also ask if there are any special instructions on filling out the paperwork beforehand.You'll need a list of all the medications that have been prescribed for you in the past year, as well as information about ongoing conditions such as diabetes. Be sure not to forget anything. If possible, bring copies of medical records from previous visits because these might help with diagnosis or treatment options. <h2>How to Find a Doctor for You</h2>The first step in finding a doctor is to know what kind of doctor you need for your specific health issues. A general practitioner may be sufficient if there are no major concerns. However, you may need more specialized care depending on the situation.For example, if you have diabetes, seeing an endocrinologist might make sense instead of going straight to a primary care physician (PCP). There are many different types of doctors out there, and each one has its own area of specialty, so they must be aware when treating patients with specific needs—especially if those needs require special training. <h2>What to Expect During a Physical Exam</h2>A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/physical-examination" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">physical exam</a> is a checkup to screen for any health concerns or problems. It includes checking your heart, lungs, and blood pressure, as well as listening to your chest and abdomen. The doctor might also order lab tests or imaging studies such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI if they feel it's necessary.One of the most important things you can do during your visit is ask questions. This will help clear up any confusion about the results of the exams and what steps need to be taken next.You should also be prepared to answer any doctor's questions about your medical history and current lifestyle habits. <h2>So, How Often Should You Go to the Doctor?</h2>One of the most frequently asked questions about medical checkups is: how often should you go to the doctor? However, there is no direct answer to this question. Depending on your age, health condition, and lifestyle habits, you might need to go more or less often.If you're looking for a doctor, we can help. We are a company that connects patients with the best doctors in their area.Our process is simple: you take a quiz about your health concerns, and we provide a list of recommended doctors who specialize in those areas.<a href="https://choicemd.com/provider-search" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Click here</a>&nbsp;to search for the right provider near you.

How Often Should You Go to the Doctor for a Checkup?

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There's no doubt that what we go through when we're younger has some sort of impact on the adults we eventually become. But how big of an impact, exactly? How big does an event in a child's life even need to be to make an impression?&nbsp;There are tonnes of studies that have been done in this area, and the evidence is interesting and something to take note of. This article will focus in particular on&nbsp;ACEs and long-term health. What's the potential impact?Can a person's childhood go on to affect&nbsp;their physical health, their mental health, and their relationships as an adult? The short answer is yes. The long answer is quite a bit more complicated but important to dig into.If you're concerned about ACEs, and how they could be affecting your life, this is something you need to look at. Read on for the evidence-based answers on the effects of ACEs on kids and who they become as adults. <h2><img src="https://images.sitesails.com/1/original/9bcaa309-ce6a-44a2-a146-c2280c7985b3-ACEs_and_long-term_health.jpeg"></h2><h2>Happy Kids Make Healthy Adults</h2> The main job of a caregiver for kids is to keep those they're responsible for healthy and happy. There are many reasons for this, but chief among them is so said children can develop into healthy happy adults and lead normal and fulfilling lives.<a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110225094936.htm" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Research shows</a> that the happier a person is as a child or a teenager, the happier they're likely to be as an adult. This makes sense. Childhood is when much of your brain development happens, and when&nbsp;many of your world views form. These things are all&nbsp;bound to have a profound effect on a person's happiness and wellbeing later on in life. <h2>What Is an ACE?</h2> So, what exactly is an ACE and how can it potentially affect a child? ACE stands for&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/blog/the-importance-of-ac-es" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">adverse childhood experience</a>. It's a term that refers to set and specific&nbsp;types of childhood trauma and negative experiences a child can go through.ACEs include 10&nbsp;specific categories of exposures which are grouped into&nbsp;three&nbsp;types. These are abuse, neglect,&nbsp;or household dysfunction.Abuse can refer to either physical abuse, sexual abuse, or verbal abuse. Neglect can be either physical or emotional in nature. Household dysfunction can cover a wide range of things, including but not limited to losing a parent, a family member having a mental illness, or witnessing a parent being abused by their spouse.These categories were first identified and formalized by the CDC in the late 1990s,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/about.html" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">during a study</a> carried out in conjunction with&nbsp;Kaiser Permanente. The study looked at what kind of things affected kids most, and how these experiences shaped&nbsp;the adults they became.<h2> </h2><h2>Lasting Negative Effects of ACEs</h2> The study carried out by the CDC, and many studies carried out subsequently confirmed the belief that children who go through trauma are more likely to have various struggles as adults. These struggles covered a wide range.For example, adults who had lived through ACEs were found to be more likely to have issues with&nbsp;alcohol and drug abuse, mental health issues such as depression and suicide, and health issues such as diabetes, cancer, and stroke. They also were found to have more difficulty gaining employment, leading&nbsp;active lifestyles, and were at a higher risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.One of the big takeaways from the study was the prevalence of something known as&nbsp;Toxic Stress Response. This is the way the body responds to stress that is negative and ongoing for an extended period. This condition tends to be especially prevalent where a child lives through ACEs without the buffer of at least one sympathetic or responsible caregiver.Toxic Stress Response can have an effect on a child's mental health, physical health, immunity,&nbsp;as well as their hormones and development. This, in turn, can have a big impact on the types of adults they grow into. <h2>Improving Long-term Health of Adults Who Lived Through ACEs</h2> When a person is still a child, there are certain steps that can be taken to minimize the negative lasting impacts of ACEs.&nbsp;This includes, as is stated above, making sure the child has access to an understanding and caring adult with whom they can feel safe.Having a support system available is crucially important for children. In light of this, many states have been and are passing laws specifically to reduce the impact of ACEs on kids.But what about adults for whom the damage may already be done? Is there a way to address and overcome the challenges put in front of them by their difficult childhoods?Adults who've lived through ACEs tend to face the challenges they do because of unaddressed trauma. By unpacking said trauma, talking through their pasts, and working through emotions that have been buried, they can learn a lot about themselves and their situations, and begin to heal in a meaningful way.There are also practical lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise and engaging in mindfulness that can really help to address a lot of these issues and help to get their lives back on track. The bottom line is that there absolutely is hope for someone who's had a difficult childhood to become a happy, healthy, and functioning member of society later in life. <h2>ACEs and long-term health</h2> If any of the above spoke to you, and you feel as though you may be facing challenges in your life because of things you've gone through as a child, then you can and should seek medical help. Though the effects of ACEs and long-term health are real, they don't need to be a life sentence.If you're in the south Florida area, Choice MD can help.&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/provider-search" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Browse our directory</a>&nbsp;to be put in touch with a medical professional who can help you start living a better life today.

ACEs and Long-Term Health: The Complete Guide on the Connection

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<h1>Have you heard of the ACE score? What does that mean, anyway?</h1>ACE stands for Adverse Childhood Experience(s). These experiences are things that happen in childhood that could be traumatic enough to continue causing problems in the future.&nbsp;It's common for certain situations to trigger adult issues with mental and physical health.We're here with a brief list of&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/blog/working-through-childhood-traumas-or-ac-es" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">adverse childhood experiences</a> and to talk about what it means to have a high ACE score. Read on to learn more. <h2>Adverse Childhood Experiences: What Are They?</h2>So what is an adverse childhood experience anyway?An adverse childhood experience is an experience that has the potential to be traumatic that happens during someone's childhood. It's possible that the child is not traumatized by the event, but it will still contribute to their ACE score.&nbsp;Adverse childhood experiences can lead to future physical and mental health problems, though this isn't always true. People who specialize in childhood psychology use ACE scores to get a basic idea of a child's current condition and figure out how to help them.&nbsp; <img src="https://images.sitesails.com/1/original/969fdf18-53c5-4ea9-a9c2-d452b891b15d-adverse_childhood_experiences.jpg"><h2>Basic List of Adverse Childhood Experiences</h2>The list of adverse childhood experiences is not all-inclusive. There are plenty of childhood experiences that could be traumatizing, even if they aren't specifically labeled on the list.For example, children who experience racism or homophobia during their childhood can be traumatized by that experience, but it isn't technically part of the list.Children who experience the death of a loved one or a parent disappearing from the household could end up with trauma from that experience. If you feel as though you experienced childhood trauma and your situation is not on the list, remember that your feelings are still valid.Psychologists break the ACE list down into three categories:&nbsp;<ol><li data-list="bullet">Abuse</li><li data-list="bullet">Neglect</li><li data-list="bullet">Household dysfunction</li></ol> <h2>Here are the types of adverse childhood experiences that go into each category.&nbsp;</h2><h3> </h3><h3>Abuse</h3>Did you know that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-child-abuse#:~:text=1%20in%207%20children%20has,neglect%20in%20the%20past%20year.&amp;text=It's%20estimated%20that%20at%20least,sexual%20abuse%2C%20and%20psychological%20abuse." target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">one out of seven children</a>has experienced childhood abuse or neglect over the past year?When many people think of child abuse, they only consider physical abuse. While physical abuse is one of the contributors to a child's ACE score, it isn't the only one.&nbsp;Physical abuse can be striking, smacking, or otherwise physically harming a child in a non-sexual way.Sexual abuse relates to childhood rape or molestation. "Inappropriate touching" is the most common form of childhood sexual abuse. It's often done by a family member of the child, and it's common for it to go unnoticed.Emotional abuse gets the least amount of attention. Frequent yelling, discouraging, or otherwise emotionally harming the child all fall under this category.&nbsp; <h3>Neglect</h3>Neglect is harder to pinpoint. Often, childhood neglect is unintentional. This does not make it less stressful or traumatic for the child.Childhood neglect can be physical or emotional.Physical neglect means that the child isn't getting everything that they need to thrive in their home. They may not be clean, they may have tattered clothing, and they may go to bed hungry more often than not.Emotional neglect is more sinister. Children who experience emotional neglect may not get enough attention from their parents (either intentionally or not). They may experience "the silent treatment" or other methods of emotional detachment.&nbsp;<h3> </h3><h3>Household Dysfunction</h3>Household dysfunction has more categories than the other two types of adverse childhood experiences. They break down into:&nbsp;<ol><li data-list="bullet">Household substance abuse</li><li data-list="bullet">Household mental illness</li><li data-list="bullet">Abuse of the mother</li><li data-list="bullet">Family incarceration&nbsp;</li><li data-list="bullet">Divorce</li></ol>These are all things that can happen outside of the child's control, and that won't happen directly to the child. They still can cause trauma.&nbsp; If, for example, a parent who abused the mother used drugs and went to prison before they divorced the other mother, that would be five points on the ACE score (<a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/why-there-comorbidity-between-substance-use-disorders-mental-illnesses#:~:text=Mental%20illnesses%20can%20contribute%20to,developing%20a%20substance%20use%20disorder.&amp;text=It%20is%20commonly%20hypothesized%20that,a%20form%20of%20self-medication." target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">mental illness</a>, drug abuse, incarceration, violence toward the mother, and divorce).&nbsp; <h2>What Is an ACE Score?</h2>An ACE score is the number of "points" that a child (or adult who is taking the test) accumulates based on the types of adverse childhood experiences that they'd had.&nbsp;The score goes from 0-10. 0 is a "good" score while 10 is a "bad" score. The test is not a perfect option for determining levels of childhood trauma as it will only measure each event once and it doesn't measure good experiences that could balance out the bad ones in adulthood.&nbsp; <h2>What Results from a Low ACE Score?</h2>Having a low ACE score is a warning sign. It means that a child (or adult who experienced childhood trauma) may be more susceptible to certain problems and behaviors. It is not a clear indicator that the child or adult&nbsp;willhave these problems for certain. People with lower ACE scores are more likely to experience substance abuse struggles, obesity (or eating disorders), and trouble with smoking cigarettes. They may be more likely to have heart disease, cancer, stroke, broken bones, and several other physical health conditions. This is likely due to the pressure that stress puts on the body as well as environmental factors from the person's childhood home. It's more common for people with low ACE scores to struggle with poor mental health. They may experience anxiety, depression, trauma-based disorders, and personality disorders. <h2>Help for Children With Mental Health Struggles</h2>If you or a child in your life has a high ACE score, it's beneficial to seek out professional mental health help. Various types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR therapy&nbsp;show fantastic results.&nbsp; It's challenging to go through mental health struggles alone. A qualified therapist will help you or your child work through their experiences so that they can overcome them.&nbsp;If you're looking for mental health&nbsp;providers in Miami-Dade county, we want to help you.&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/provider-search" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Browse our directory</a>to find your ideal match today.

The Ultimate List of Adverse Childhood Experiences

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Did you know that over 95% of children had an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/physician-visits.htm" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">appointment with a doctor</a>during this past year? Physicians are critical to your child's care as they help treat illnesses, provide immunizations, and offer annual physicals.&nbsp; There is much debate between a pediatrician vs family doctor and which one is better for your child. While both physicians must complete medical school, their residency training differs slightly.&nbsp;For more information on the differences between the two, keep reading on.&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2>Pediatrician Doctor</h2> A pediatrician is a medical doctor that completed three years of residency in pediatrics. Typically, they see children from birth up until at least age 18.&nbsp;Pediatricians focus on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.webmd.com/baby/pediatricians-role-twins#1" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">regular or annual check-ups</a>for your child including:<ol><li data-list="bullet">Physical exams</li><li data-list="bullet">Immunizations</li><li data-list="bullet">Developmental milestones</li><li data-list="bullet">Educate on your child's health</li><li data-list="bullet">Refer to specialists</li></ol> Many families start looking at pediatricians during&nbsp;their third trimester. Your pediatrician will want to see your child two to three days after they discharge home and then fairly regularly afterward.&nbsp;If you are asking yourself what age to switch from pediatrician to family doctor, then most people make the switch around this time. A pediatrician - or children's doctor - can sometimes allow you to bring your child in up until the age of 21.&nbsp; There are two main reasons that someone will see a pediatrician between the ages of 18 to 21 years old: college and chronic conditions.&nbsp;Sometimes, transitioning to college makes it difficult for finding a new doctor. Many times, these college-aged students are&nbsp;fluctuating between home and college life. In this instance, it makes it easier with sticking to a trusted pediatrician until they graduate or move somewhere permanent. Developmental disorders and other&nbsp;<a href="https://www.parents.com/kids/health/at-what-age-should-your-kid-stop-seeing-a-pediatrician/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">chronic conditions</a>also might qualify for seeing a pediatrician into adulthood. These include diagnoses like:<ol><li data-list="bullet">Intellectual disabilities</li><li data-list="bullet">Congenital heart defects</li><li data-list="bullet">Sickle cell disease</li><li data-list="bullet">Cystic fibrosis</li><li data-list="bullet">Autism</li></ol>Pediatricians who treat autism might see their patients for longer than the cut-off age of 21 years old.&nbsp; <h2>Family Doctor</h2> Family doctors see it all - they treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. Some have further specialists for women's health and delivering babies.&nbsp;Essentially, they are generalists. They work at treating a variety of chronic&nbsp;diagnoses and offer preventive care services. Some of the other things a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-family-practice-doctor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">family doctor</a>can provide are:<ol><li data-list="bullet">Routine check-ups</li><li data-list="bullet">Immunizations</li><li data-list="bullet">Screening</li><li data-list="bullet">Educating on lifestyle and health habits</li><li data-list="bullet">Implementing treatments</li></ol> Similar to pediatricians, family doctors complete medical school and then enroll in a three or four residency program. This residency program focuses on various rotations in things like general surgery and critical care.&nbsp; Typically, if you have a condition that requires a specialist, then these doctors will refer you out to another physician.&nbsp; <h2>Pediatrician vs Family Doctor</h2>When looking at a pediatrician or family doctor, it might be hard to know which one is best for your child. It is critical to note that both doctors can treat the needs of your child.&nbsp;However, the residency of a pediatrician solely focuses on children. This means they will have a more in-depth knowledge of diagnoses specific to a developing child.&nbsp;They can also help new mothers with breastfeeding techniques and pumping strategies. If your child has behavioral, developmental, or physical disabilities, a pediatrician would likely best fit their needs.&nbsp;A&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/provider-search?id_provider_type=3&amp;id_specialty_type=32" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Miami pediatrician</a>&nbsp;can work with you and your child on developing healthy lifestyle habits. They can also address concerns relating to chronic illnesses or diseases specific to children more than a family doctor.However, if you are wanting a doctor that can work with adults and children, then opt for a family doctor. These doctors still have training in pediatrics and can always refer you to a specialist if there are other concerns.&nbsp;You might find it less of a hassle in switching between doctors, and it gives your child the opportunity of seeing their doctor after they turn 18 years old.<h2> </h2><h2>Children's Specialists</h2>There are many other types of children's doctors out there that can treat&nbsp;pediatric&nbsp;illnesses, diseases, and conditions. Some&nbsp;<a href="https://pathways.org/quick-links/pediatric-specialists/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">examples of specialists</a>that your pediatrician or family doctor might refer to are:<ol><li data-list="bullet">Neonatologist</li><li data-list="bullet">Pediatric cardiologist</li><li data-list="bullet">Pediatric endocrinologist</li><li data-list="bullet">Pediatric orthopedic surgeon</li><li data-list="bullet">Physical therapists</li><li data-list="bullet">Speech therapists</li><li data-list="bullet">Nutritionist</li></ol>These specialists can offer more insight or provide unique therapy for developing children. For example, a speech therapist&nbsp;focusing&nbsp;on pediatric care can work on your child's language and development skills.&nbsp;A speech therapist working with adults might focus more on swallowing disorders or language barriers from strokes or tumors. Ultimately, you don't have to sacrifice these&nbsp;doctors when you see a pediatrician or family doctor.&nbsp;Keep in mind - a pediatrician might have more access and referrals to highly specialized physicians focused on pediatrics. Usually, a pediatrician is in the same building or hospital as other similar physicians.&nbsp;Your family doctor might refer you to a pediatrician first before focusing on other specialists which could delay diagnosis and treatment.&nbsp;Additionally, make sure that your physician accepts your insurance and any referred specialists.&nbsp;This can save you hefty expenses down the road and avoid out-of-pocket costs.&nbsp; <h2>Find Your Children's Doctor Today</h2>Pediatricians are the go-to doctors when it comes to treating children. However, when you are looking more in-depth at a pediatrician vs family doctor, you really cannot go wrong with either option.&nbsp;Both physicians are highly specialized in caring for a broad range of illnesses. Family doctors can also see your child after they turn 18 years old, which might seem more appealing to parents.&nbsp;For help in finding the perfect doctor for your child,&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/provider-search" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">visit our site today</a>&nbsp;and browse qualified Miami doctors.

Pediatrician vs Family Doctor: Which Is Best for Your Child? 

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No one looks forward to getting their first mammogram, but at some point, you reach an age where you&nbsp;knowyou can't put it off any longer.&nbsp;But once you start, how often should you get a mammogram?The answer might not be as often as you think. Mammograms are quick, so they don't suck a lot of time out of your already busy schedule.We've put together this guide to help you learn more about when to start getting mammograms, how often to get them, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Make sure you keep reading below for some important health tips. <img src="https://images.sitesails.com/1/original/16b0b5bc-218c-4e7e-8870-50ef69f8e2fc-how_often_should_you_get_a_mammogram.jpeg" height="661.1484210526316" width="992" style=""> <h2>Women's Health 101: When Should You Start Getting Mammograms?&nbsp;</h2>There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. There are a number of factors that can make the right starting point look a little different for every woman. For example, some of them include:&nbsp;<ol><li data-list="bullet">Your risk factors</li><li data-list="bullet">Your age&nbsp;</li><li data-list="bullet">Your personal preference&nbsp;</li></ol>It's a good idea to talk to&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/provider-search" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193); background-color: transparent;">your doctor</a>&nbsp;about your risk of developing breast cancer and when mammograms will benefit you. However, most medical professionals recommend scheduling an appointment for your first mammogram when you're between the ages of 40 and 44. Once you turn 45, it is important to make sure you get regular mammograms. <h2>How Often Should You Get a Mammogram?</h2>Most women won't have to get more than one mammogram a year, but that isn't always the case. Again, the best way to figure out when and how frequently to get a mammogram is to discuss the issue with your doctor. They will help you put together a schedule that's best for your health.&nbsp;Here's a rough guide about how often you should expect to get a mammogram:&nbsp;<ol><li data-list="bullet">Ages40 to 45: once a year&nbsp;</li><li data-list="bullet">Ages 45 to 54: once a year&nbsp;</li><li data-list="bullet">Ages 55 and older: twice a year&nbsp;</li></ol>After the age of 55, you should continue getting mammograms twice a year as long as you're in good health. Senior women who aren't expected to live more than a few years may not need to keep getting this type of breast cancer screening.&nbsp;Keep in mind, though, that this is just a rough guide. You may need to get mammograms more often (or less often) depending on your personal health. This is especially true if you are at a higher than&nbsp;<a href="https://bcrisktool.cancer.gov/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193); background-color: transparent;">average risk</a>of developing breast cancer.&nbsp; <h2>What to Expect During Your First Mammogram&nbsp;</h2>We all like to keep our kitchens clean and tidy, but there are places food can hang out that you might not if you're getting ready for your first mammogram appointment, there's no reason to worry about it. The procedure is a fairly quick and simple one. In most cases, you'll be in and out of the doctor's office&nbsp;in about 15 minutes.&nbsp; <h3>Before the Appointment&nbsp;</h3>Make sure you don't wear any type of lotions, oils, deodorants, etc. the day of the appointment. These products can interfere with the machine and mess up the results. You may have to return for a second mammogram later if this happens.&nbsp;It's also a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothing. You want to be able to remove it easily, and cozy clothes will help you stay relaxed as you wait for the mammogram to start. <h3>During the Appointment</h3>When you arrive at the doctor's office, you will receive a gown and be asked to undress from the waist up. The gown will keep you covered up until the procedure so you feel more comfortable.&nbsp;A technician will then take you to a machine and position your breasts (one at a time) between two plastic plates. The machine will apply pressure to your breasts to flatten them, which spreads out the tissue and provides better x-ray images. While they are pressed flat, the technician will take several pictures of your breasts from different angles.&nbsp;This should only take a few seconds to complete.&nbsp;After this, you'll be able to head home. In most cases, the radiologist won't examine the images while you're still there. Instead, they'll do this later and get in touch with you to let you know the results.&nbsp; <h3>After the Appointment&nbsp;</h3>You'll receive the results of your mammogram within a few days or weeks after the appointment. That's likely to be the end of your mammogram experience until the next year. However, if you have an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/if-youre-called-back-after-a-mammogram.html" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193); background-color: transparent;">abnormal mammogram</a>, you might have to go back to the doctor's office for more tests.&nbsp;Don't panic, though.&nbsp;An abnormal mammogram doesn't mean you have cancer. In fact, most people who have abnormal mammograms never develop cancer. <h2>Does a Mammogram Hurt?</h2>A mammogram certainly isn't comfortable. However, you shouldn't be in much pain during the procedure. The pressure applied to your breasts may hurt for a few seconds, but it should be bearable.&nbsp;It's also normal to experience soreness after the procedure. Your breasts may feel sensitive for a few days after the mammogram, but this discomfort should fade in a few days. If it doesn't go away, make sure you give your doctor a call. <h2>Healthcare in Miami: Scheduling Your Next Mammogram</h2>So how often should you get a mammogram?It depends on the specifics of your personal health, but in general, you should plan to get a mammogram every year after the age of 40. Are you looking for doctors in Miami that can administer your next mammogram?&nbsp;Don't hesitate to&nbsp;<a href="https://choicemd.com/about" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193); background-color: transparent;">get in touch</a>&nbsp;with our team at Choice MD today. We'll help you schedule your appointment, walk you through the procedure, and be with you through every step of your health journey.

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