Babies and young children often attend health checks. Of the 1-year-olds, 97% attended a health check. Older children attend less frequently. Only 26% of 11-12-year-olds attend.
At school, nurses check children in grades 1, 3, 7, and 10. 11-12-year-olds and 15-16-year-olds visit the family doctor. Many parents are unaware of this.
11-12-year-olds are changing rapidly. The family doctor checks height, weight, and other factors. This helps identify problems.
The family doctor says the check is important. For example, many children are overweight. This should be treated in childhood.
The Health Insurance Fund sends SMS reminders to parents. This reminds them to visit the family doctor. All 11-12 and 15-16-year-olds should visit the family doctor. The parent needs to book an appointment.