Scope and Target Population:
To provide a comprehensive approach to the provision of preventive services, counseling, education and disease screening for average-risk, asymptomatic individuals from birth through age 18. There are occasional exceptions to this for high-risk populations where noted.

This guideline targets asymptomatic children seeking health care who would benefit from preventive services. This resource is intended to assist in the prioritization of screening maneuvers, testing and counseling opportunities. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Consequently, once a health issue or condition has been uncovered, other guidelines (such as the ICSI Prevention and Management of Obesity [Mature Adolescents and Adults] guideline) will take precedence during any further diagnosis and management.

Clinical Highlights and Recommendations:

• All clinic visits – whether acute, chronic or for preventive service – are opportunities for prevention. Incorporate appropriate preventive services at every opportunity.
  
• Address or initiate child preventive services that providers and care systems must deliver (based on best evidence) (Level I).
  - Childhood Immunization Series
  - Chlamydia Screening
  - Vision Screening
  
• Provide timely feedback, appropriate interventions and optimal follow-up.

Priority Aims:

1. Increase the percentage of patients (children and adolescents) who are on time with recommended immunizations. Level I childhood immunizations series are those that must be delivered (based on best evidence).
   
2. Reduce missed opportunities for administering immunizations.
   
3. Decrease the percentage of patients who are behind with recommended immunizations by creating a catch-up plan.
   
4. Increase the percent of sexually active female patients under the age of 25 who are screened for chlamydia.
   
5. Increase the percentage of newborn patients who have had neonatal screening.
   
6. Increase percentage of children age four years and younger who have had vision screening.
   

Additional Background:
The guideline was developed using an evidence-based approach, which emphasizes the critical evaluation of scientific evidence, rather than expert opinion or consensus. The guideline also identifies those services that should not be included in light of similarly strong evidence.