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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.