What Is Adolescent health and wellness?

Teens ages 15 and older should visit their family doctor for a "well-child visit" once a year.  There’s a lot going on health-wise during the teen years, and it is important to make sure your teenager is healthy and developing normally.  This is different from a sick visit or a visit to treat an injury. Dr. Mark Rogovin, D.O., F.A.A.F.P and our nurse practitioner, Maria Jacobs, DNP, FNP-BC are great with teens, and provide an easy transition during these ages where most kids ages 15 and up have outgrown their pediatricians.  It helps to have a medical team who understands your child in their teen years.

Teens ages 15-17 start to exhibit both physical and behavioral changes.  During these years, your teen may be nearing the end of puberty.  They may not ask you questions about sex, their bodies or relationships, so it is a good idea for a parent to start the conversation, or encourage your teen to ask questions to their doctor or nurse. Some changes that you may notice in your teen include:

  • Spending less time with family and more time with friends
  • Worrying more about the future (like going to college or finding a job)
  • Thinking more about romantic relationships and sex
  • Trying new things like new sports or hobbies — or possibly experimenting with tobacco, alcohol, or drugs

Family Medicine Physicians have extra training in the medical and emotional issues that many teens face. They’re taught to deal with topics like ADHD, reproductive health , drugs, eating disorders, anxiety, irregular periods, mood changes, and problems at home or school.  Here at Healthcare Associates Of Palm Beach, Dr. Mark Rogovin and our nurse practitioner, Maria Jacobs, offer these services and more to surrounding areas of Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Wellington, and Lake Worth, Florida.

For girls, many adolescent health and wellness doctors provide gynecology care as well,  including pelvic exams when needed. Many teen girls feel more comfortable having their first well woman visit with our nurse practitioner, Maria Jacobs, DNP, FNP-BC.  She can perform their pelvic and breast exams, as well as counsel them on safe sex practices and also prescribe birth control. Visit us at Healthcare Associates Of Palm Beach which offers Family Care to the  surrounding areas of Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Wellington and Lake Worth.