Preparing for the Medicare Three-Year-Old Check

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna de Lange is joined by Dr Tim Jones, GP and Chair of the RACGP Specific Interest Group in Child and Young Persons Health, to discuss the Federal Government's upcoming Medicare-funded three-year-old health check. Dr Jones explains the significance of this check as a point for early identification of developmental and family issues, given the critical period of social and emotional growth at age three.

Covering the biopsychosocial approach required for a comprehensive assessment, this episode highlights the "CHILD" acronym by considering factors such as the Child's development, Home environment, Interactions, Learning settings, and overall Development. Practical guidance is offered on assessment tools like PEDS and key developmental red flags to look for, with recommendations for consulting state-based resources.

Providing insights into how these checks will integrate with broader national reforms under the Thriving Kids initiative, with local services rolling out in 2026 and beyond. He advises practices to prepare now by reviewing developmental surveillance processes and proactively supporting vulnerable families, even before new item numbers become available.

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