Health Screening and Immunization Resources

Health screening recommendations and immunization schedules frequently change. Your primary care provider can help you decide what’s appropriate for your individual clinical needs, as well as your family’s needs. 

These resources can help inform you of the most current recommendations so you can discuss with your doctor what’s best for you. 

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF)

Recommended clinical preventive services (pediatric, adolescent, adult and senior)
The USPTF is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in disease prevention and evidence-based medicine. The Task Force works to improve the health of all Americans by making evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services. 

American Academy of Family Practice (AAFP) 

Immunization schedules
Each year, the AAFP and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) collaborate to develop recommendations for the routine use of vaccines in children, adolescents, and adults in the United States. 

Preventative screening recommendations that differ from USPSTF
AAFP clinical preventive services recommendations are based on the rigorous analysis of scientific research performed by the United States Preventive Services Task Force. 

The USPSTF conducts impartial assessments of the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of a broad range of clinical preventive services, including screening, counseling, and preventive medications. 

The AAFP reviews all USPSTF recommendations and evidence reports. If the AAFP agrees with the USPSTF, a link is provided to their website for more information. When the AAFP’s assessment differs from the USPSTF, a separate recommendation is developed. 

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Immunizations (recommended schedules for all ages plus travel resources)
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) approves immunization schedules for children and adolescents birth through 18 years.

The schedule is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). 

Staying healthy (resources for overall health through every life stage)
Part of the role of the CDC is tackling the biggest health problems causing death and disability for Americans, putting science and advanced technology into action to prevent disease, and promoting healthy and safe behaviors, communities and environment. 

American Cancer Society

Cancer screening recommendations
Screening increases the chances of detecting certain cancers early, when they might be easier to treat. Learn what screening tests the American Cancer Society recommends, when you should have them, and how they are covered under some types of insurance. 

American Heart Association

Heart health screening recommendations

An important aspect of lowering risk of cardiovascular disease is managing health behaviors and risk factors. Learn about the key heart health screenings the American Heart Association recommends.

Updated April 23, 2020