GPs encourage families to take advantage of three-year-old health checks

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is encouraging parents and carers of three-year-olds to speak with their GP about the Medicare Healthy Kids Check, which became available on 1 November as part of the Australian Government's Thriving Kids initiative. 

The Medicare-subsidised check gives eligible children access to a comprehensive assessment of their physical, social and emotional development before they start school.  

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the checks will help identify health and developmental concerns early, giving children and families the best possible start. 

“Australia's GPs know that early intervention can make a significant difference to a child's health, wellbeing and development,” he said. 

“A well-funded, dedicated health check for every three-year-old won't just support the Thriving Kids initiative, it will support every child's future health. 

“When GPs can spend the time they need with children and their parents, they can identify potential health and developmental concerns early and help families access appropriate support so every child starts school healthy and ready to learn. 

“General practice is often the first point of contact for families. GPs provide holistic, ongoing care and are uniquely placed to monitor a child's development, answer parents' questions, and coordinate referrals when extra support is needed. 

“The Government's commitment to this health check is a win for families, and GPs are ready to support every child to thrive.” 

The Medicare Healthy Kids Check was recommended by the Thriving Kids Advisory Group to support interventions before children commence school and assist in identifying developmental concerns and neurodevelopmental differences. 

One Medicare-funded check will be available for all eligible three-year-olds, with children requiring further assessment continuing to have access to existing Medicare services and support pathways. 

Dr Wright said the introduction of the check recognised the critical role GPs play in preventive healthcare and supporting children's long-term health outcomes. 

“The earlier concerns are identified, the earlier families can access the advice, treatment and supports they need," he said. 

“Investing in prevention and early intervention helps improve children's health outcomes and supports families through some of the most important years of a child's development.”