How to perform a 'Healthy Kids Check'.
BACKGROUND
The Healthy Kids Check aims to gather health information, identify health problems and promote healthy lifestyles around the time of the 4 years of age vaccinations. It consists of a checklist of examinations and assessments, six of which are mandatory.


OBJECTIVE
A series of evidence based examinations that fulfil the mandatory requirements for a Healthy Kids Check and which can be applied in general practice are proposed. Consideration is also given to nonmandatory examinations and additional assessments which have some evidence for their application.


CONCLUSIONS
The proposed examination enables general practitioners to remain positively engaged with families and contribute toward the health surveillance of preschool children. Changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule, which support time based reimbursement for preventive healthcare may encourage greater uptake of the Healthy Kids Check.
Alexander
Karyn
K
School of Primary Health Care, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Victoria. karyn.alexander@med.monash.edu.au
Mazza
Danielle
D
D001315:Australia; D057189:Checklist; D002662:Child Health Services; D002675:Child, Preschool; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006293:Health Promotion; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D037141:Mandatory Programs