Vaccinations Keep You and Your Family Safe

September 28, 2020

It’s the time of year to get your kids back to school. It’s also the perfect time for annual checkups and to make sure they’re up to date on their vaccinations, regardless of whether they’re attending classes at school or from home.

Concerns over COVID-19 may have kept you from getting annual exams, vaccines and other health care needs for you and your child. But now’s the time to get back on track with your health and the health of your children.

Dr. Kelli Tice Wells said staying healthy during the pandemic should be a priority.

"Maintaining physical and mental health checkups with your primary care doctor is an important tool to help prevent or detect serious illnesses and diseases as well as to monitor certain conditions,” said Wells, senior medical director for medical affairs at Florida Blue.

For instance, your child’s annual well-child checkup is more than just looking at immunization records and keeping them on track. It’s an opportunity for your child’s doctor to document development and overall general health.

If you have safety concerns about going to your doctor’s office, call and ask what they’re doing to keep patients protected. Some of those measures include wearing face masks and performing temperature checks.

If there’s a risk factor such as age or other concerns, many Florida Blue doctors offer virtual visits or telemedicine where you can interact with your primary care doctor through a secure video or phone at home or on the go for as low as $0 through Dec. 31. It’s a safe option for a variety of non-emergency conditions.

Speaking of safety, flu season is approaching at a time when the health system is busy because of COVID-19. It’s never been more important for you and your child to get a flu shot. At $0 cost share for most Florida Blue members, it’s the single best way to be protected from the flu. (If you get insurance through your job, check with your benefits administrator.)

You can get a flu shot at your doctor’s office and at pharmacies like Publix, Walgreens, Walmart and Winn-Dixie. You may also be able to earn rewards when you get your flu shot.

As COVID-19 continues to transform the way we live, there’s no better time to focus on your health. Make preventive care, such as well-child visits and vaccinations, your first line of defense against serious illnesses and diseases. Call your doctor to schedule a routine exam or screening today.