Newborn Care
Newborn Care Begins From The Moment Your Baby Arrives
At Priority Care Pediatrics, we begin your newborn’s care right in the hospital and continue to provide comprehensive, coordinated care as your baby grows.
Our physicians currently round at St. Luke’s North Hospital, North Kansas City Hospital, and Liberty Hospital, ensuring seamless, continuous care from birth through every stage of development.
Our professional team works closely with families to support every aspect of your child’s health — from those first precious days through every milestone ahead.
Newborn Care FAQs
When does my newborn have their first checkup?
We typically see new babies in the office 2–3 days after birth to check their weight, feeding, and overall health. During this visit, we also screen for jaundice, answer questions, and provide education and support to help parents feel confident caring for their newborn at home. This early visit ensures your baby is off to a healthy start and allows us to address any concerns right away.
Babies who had a delayed discharge, possible from being in the NICU, will often be seen within the first week after discharge.
What screenings does newborn care include?
In Missouri, every newborn undergoes a panel of screening tests within the first 24–48 hours of life, required by state law. These include a blood spot (heel-prick) test that screens for over 70 genetic, metabolic, and endocrine disorders (such as phenylketonuria, congenital hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis, amino acid disorders, fatty acid oxidation disorders, hemoglobinopathies, and others).
In addition, infants receive hearing screening to detect early hearing loss and a critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening using a pulse oximeter to check blood oxygen levels.
These newborn screenings help identify conditions that, if left undetected, could cause serious health problems — and early diagnosis gives your baby the best chance for prompt treatment and a healthy start.
What are well-child visits?
A well child check is a routine visit that focuses on your child’s growth, development, and overall health. These visits give your pediatrician a chance to track milestones, update vaccinations, check vision, hearing, and physical health, and discuss nutrition, behavior, and safety. They’re also a great time for parents to ask questions and get guidance for each stage of childhood.
Regular well visits help ensure your child is healthy, growing well, and thriving — now and in the future.
