Preventive Care and Immunizations

The best visit to the doctor is the one that keeps you from needing more of them. Preventive care — screenings, checkups, and immunizations — helps you and your family stay ahead of health problems instead of chasing them. Saint Joseph Health System primary care teams provide preventive care for every age across Mishawaka and South Bend. Schedule online or call 888-638-4427.

Pediatric Care Annual Physicals
Young boy receiving immunization from a primary care physican

Screenings that catch problems early

Many serious conditions are quiet at first — which is exactly why screening works. Based on your age, sex, family history, and health, your doctor will recommend the right checks at the right times: blood pressure and cholesterol checks, diabetes screening, and cancer screenings such as mammograms, colon cancer screening, and cervical cancer screening. You don't have to memorize any schedule — that's your primary care doctor's job. Come in for your annual physical, and we'll keep your screenings on track.

Immunizations for children and adults

Vaccines aren't just for kids. Adults benefit from a yearly flu shot, tetanus boosters, and — depending on age and health — vaccines that protect against shingles and pneumonia. Your doctor will tell you which ones you're due for. For children, we follow the CDC's recommended immunization schedule, and your child's pediatrician will keep them on track at each well-child visit — no spreadsheet required on your end. [VERIFY vaccines offered on-site; VERIFY flu clinic offerings] Parents who want a deeper explanation can read our guide to childhood immunizations. (link the blog post)

Well-child visits: prevention from the very start

For kids, preventive care means regular well-child visits that track growth and development, keep vaccines current, and give you time to ask about sleep, eating, behavior, and milestones. Learn more on our Pediatric Care page — and if a school or sports form is what brought you here, our Sports and School Physicals page has you covered.

Frequently asked questions

Commonly a yearly flu shot and a tetanus booster every ten years, plus age-based vaccines such as shingles and pneumonia. Your doctor will personalize the list at your next visit.

Yes — our pediatric and family medicine providers follow the CDC's recommended schedule and will keep your child on track.

Usually, yes — ask when you schedule.

t depends on more than age — your doctor weighs your history and risk factors to build your screening plan at your annual physical.