Child's First GP Visit
If you have a young child and haven't yet established a relationship with a GP, you're not alone. Many parents wait until something is wrong to book a first visit. But a first GP appointment doesn't need a reason.
This guide covers what happens at a child's first GP visit, what to bring, and what to look for in a GP who will be a good fit for your family over the long term.
What Does the GP Check at a Child's First Visit?
- Growth and weight, tracked against standard growth charts for their age
- Developmental milestones — sitting, walking, talking, social interaction
- Immunisation status checked against the National Immunisation Program schedule
- Any current symptoms, feeding concerns, sleep patterns, or behavioural questions
- Your wellbeing — if you are a new parent, a GP may ask how you are coping
What to Bring to the Appointment
- Blue book (NSW Personal Health Record): the yellow-covered booklet issued at birth, containing growth records, vaccination history, and developmental notes
- Medicare card, and any concession or healthcare cards
- Previous health records: any relevant letters, results, or discharge summaries from other providers
- Your questions: write them down before you arrive — no question is too small
How to Find the Right GP for Your Child
Paediatric experience or interest is a good starting point. GPs who work regularly with children tend to be more comfortable with developmental concerns and childhood immunisations, and more at ease managing a consultation with a young child in the room.
Cultural fit matters. You want a GP you'll feel comfortable calling on a Tuesday afternoon when something feels off. A first appointment is partly about establishing that relationship.
At Crown West Medical, Dr Jennifer Peattie holds a Master of Medicine in Paediatrics and has a special interest in child and adolescent health. Dr Jessica Lee also sees children and adolescents alongside her women's health practice. Both see families at 330 Crown Street, Wollongong.
When to Book
- Shortly after birth, if you haven't yet established care with a GP
- Before starting childcare or school, to confirm immunisation is up to date
- Before winter, as a preventive check
- Whenever a question has been sitting unanswered for a few weeks
- When your child's behaviour, growth, or development concerns you, even mildly
Winter-Specific Considerations for Children
- Flu vaccination is recommended from age 6 months. FluMist is free for NSW children aged 2 to 4 under the current NSW Health program.
- Whooping cough tends to peak in winter — check vaccinations are current, particularly for children under 2.
- Children in childcare or school are in close contact with others. Early GP assessment can clarify whether something needs treatment or monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does my child need a referral to see a GP? No. You can book a GP appointment directly for your child without a referral.
Q: How long does a child's first GP visit take? A standard appointment is 15 minutes. For a first visit covering multiple areas, book a 30-minute appointment via HotDoc or call (02) 4228 4155.
Q: What immunisations should my child have by age 5? The National Immunisation Program covers vaccines from birth to 4 years, including protection against whooping cough, measles, polio, chickenpox, and meningococcal disease. Your GP will check the blue book for any gaps. Full schedule at immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au.
Q: Can I bring more than one child to the same appointment? It's better to book a separate appointment for each child to allow adequate time. Let reception know when booking.
Q: What if my child is anxious about seeing a doctor? Let the GP know at the start of the appointment. A relaxed first visit with no pressure makes subsequent visits easier.
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