Media Release

 

March 23, 2011

 

45 minute free health check may improve life opportunities for children

 

Parents of four-year-old children in the Hunter are being encouraged to take part in a program that provides free 45-minute health checks to children prior to starting school.

The four-year My First Health Record check is an assessment of a child’s physical health, general well-being and development, with the purpose of initiating ongoing health care and treatment if necessary.

The health checks conducted by Kaleidoscope’s Child and Family Health Nursing at these clinics include physical height, weight, BMI, oral health assessment and vision screening.

A questionnaire is used to assess hearing, vision, speech and development.

Information can be provided by a child and family health nurse on diet and age appropriate behaviour.

Acting Clinical Nurse Consultant Karen Johnson said that these checks are important for children prior to entering school, as the early detection of possible health issues can provide lifelong benefits.

Ms Johnson also said that NSW Health has targeted 4 year olds to increase the number of children being screened.

”Early detection can prevent a lifetime of health problems and give children the best start in life. Most eye and vision problems can be treated if they are detected early in childhood. Identification of vision, hearing, speech, development, dental and health problems in children can also improve outcomes in general health, socialisation, learning and in life opportunities,” Ms Johnson said.

Parents/carers can book an appointment to attend Newcastle and Lake Macquarie Child and Family Health Nursing Centres until 30 June 2011 for a free 45-minute health check of their 4-year-old child. To book an appointment please phone 49613007.

 

Media Opportunity

Interviews are available upon request with Karen Johnson (Acting Clinical Nurse Consultant)

 

Media inquiries:

Lucas Coleman - 02 49213844, 0407895101 (ref HNE-2520 )