Babies and young children often attend health checkups. Last year, 97% of 1-year-olds attended a health checkup. However, this number decreases with age. Only 26% of 11-12 year olds attend health checkups.
At school, children have health checkups in the 1st, 3rd, 7th, and 10th grades. School nurses conduct these checkups at school. However, checkups for 11-12 year olds and 15-16 year olds take place at family health centers. This is news to many parents.
11-12 year olds are on the brink of puberty. During this time, both the body and mood change. The family doctor checks the child's height, weight, eyesight, breathing, and blood pressure. This helps to identify potential health problems.
Family doctor Marje Oona says that a health checkup is not just a formality. It is an opportunity to detect issues in a child's development. For example, many children are overweight. If this is not treated in childhood, the problem may persist into adulthood.
A health checkup is also a good opportunity to discuss the child's behavior or habits with the family doctor. For example, eating problems, difficulties at school, or issues with peers. The family doctor helps find solutions.
Since summer, the Health Insurance Fund has been sending SMS reminders to parents about health checkups. In September, 10% of those who received the reminder attended a checkup with their family doctor.
All 11-12 and 15-16 year olds should attend health checkups with their family doctor. Parents need to book the appointment themselves. It is important to find time to get the checkup done.