When do I visit my doctor as an adult, and what vaccinations will I need?

Making the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare is an important step in taking charge of your health. As soon as you turn 18, it’s a good idea to establish care with an adult primary care doctor. This ensures that you have a trusted provider who knows your medical history and can help you stay on top of your health needs.

Schedule a check-up every year

Getting a check-up once a year is a good habit. Even if you’re healthy, these visits help catch health problems early, keep vaccines up to date, and give you a chance to ask questions about your health. Your doctor will also let you know if you need more visits based on your personal health risks.

Your doctor will help you stay up to date on vaccines

As an adult, it’s important to keep up with recommended vaccines. In addition to getting your annual flu shot and staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, your doctor will review your history and make sure you have any other necessary vaccines. This may include boosters for tetanus (Tdap), protection against meningitis if you’re heading to college, or the HPV vaccine if you haven’t completed the series. Keeping up with vaccinations helps protect both your health and the health of those around you.

Enjoy long-term support for your health

Having a primary care doctor isn’t just about getting check-ups—it’s about building a long-term relationship with someone who understands your health history, concerns, and goals. When you see the same doctor regularly, they can provide better guidance tailored to your needs, track changes in your health over time, and help you make informed decisions about your care.

Avoid the stress of finding care at the last minute

One of the biggest benefits of having a primary care doctor is knowing exactly where to go when you’re sick or need medical advice. Seeing your doctor for a yearly check-up helps build a relationship, so when you need care, they already know your health history. This makes getting the right treatment easier and faster than rushing to find a doctor at the last minute.

If you haven’t yet found a primary care doctor, now is the perfect time to start. Taking this step will help you stay on top of your health today and for years to come.