TennCare Kids is a full program of checkups and health care services for children from birth through age 20 who have TennCare. These services make sure that babies, children, teens, and young adults receive the health care they need. Good health begins at birth, so it's important to Check In, Check Up and Check Back.
If you're not in TennCare but think you might be eligible, or you have questions, visit TennCare Connect online at tenncareconnect.tn.gov or call 855-259-0701.
Check In
You want to get your infant’s health started off right. Call your doctor or TennCare health plan today to schedule an appointment. Doctors, dentists and other health professionals will make sure your little one is developing normally and help detect any problems that might need more attention.
Where do I take my child to get their checkup?
- Your child's doctor (Primary Care Provider)
- Your local health department
What does TennCare Kids provide?
- Free well-child checkups
- Dental checkups and services
- Medical treatment
- Behavioral health services
What if I need help making an appointment?
Call your doctor or TennCare health plan.
What if I need transportation to my appointment?
Call your TennCare health plan.
Check Up
Babies need to visit the doctor every few weeks or months until they reach age 3, and children need checkups every year after that. Checkups and other services are done by doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals. Call your child's doctor, TennCare health plan or local health department today to schedule an appointment.
What will happen at the checkup?
- Review of the baby’s health history
- Complete physical exam
- Lab tests (as appropriate)
- Immunizations
- Vision/hearing screenings
- Developmental/behavioral screenings (as appropriate)
- Advice on how to keep your child healthy
Checkup Schedule
First year:
- At birth
- 3–5 days
- 1 month old
- 2 months old
- 4 months old
- 6 months old
- 9 months old
- 12 months old
Early childhood:
- 15 months old
- 18 months old (1½ years old)
- 24 months old (2 years old)
- 30 months old (2½ years old)
- 3 years old
- 4 years old
Middle childhood and adolescence:
When children reach the age of 3, it is recommended that they receive TennCare Kids health screenings every year until the age of 21. In addition, children should see their dentist every 6 months for FREE TennCare Kids dental exams beginning at age 1,or earlier if needed. These dental exams should take place two times every year and are covered by TennCare until a member turns 21.
Check Back
Check back for:
- A follow-up appointment (if needed)
- Your next scheduled visit
- Any new health problem that comes up
What if there is a problem?
TennCare will cover services needed to find or treat medical problems.
To schedule a TennCare Kids visit, call your doctor or PCP. If you don't have a doctor, your local health department can help.