A new school year is the perfect opportunity to make sure your child is healthy, up to date with vaccinations, and ready to learn. A pre-school GP check-up can identify issues that might otherwise go undetected — affecting your child’s ability to participate fully in the classroom and playground.
Is My Child’s Immunisation Record Up to Date?
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) has specific catch-up requirements at school entry age. Before your child starts primary school, confirm they have received:
- Chickenpox (varicella) — 18 months and 4 years
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) — 12 months and 18 months
- DTPa (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) — 18 months and 4 years
- IPV (polio) — 4 years
You can check your child’s immunisation history through MyGov (Medicare section) or request a printout from our clinic. Any missed vaccines can be administered at Peninsula MDC Mornington — the NIP catch-up schedule provides these vaccines free of charge.
Vision and Hearing
Undetected vision and hearing problems are among the most common causes of learning difficulties and behaviour issues in school-aged children. If your child hasn’t had a vision or hearing check recently, a GP consultation is a good starting point — our doctors can conduct basic assessments and refer to appropriate specialists (ophthalmologist, audiologist) if concerns are identified.
School Entry Medical
Some schools or sporting activities require a school entry or sports clearance medical. Our GPs provide these assessments efficiently at Peninsula MDC Mornington, with reports provided on the same visit where possible.
Children’s Mental Health
Starting school — or transitioning to a new year level — can be a significant source of anxiety for children. If your child seems persistently worried about school, has difficulty separating from you, or is experiencing changes in sleep, appetite or mood, a GP consultation can help determine whether further support is needed.
Children’s Dental Check
The start of the school year is also a good time to schedule your child’s dental check-up. Eligible children aged 2–17 can access up to $1,095 in free dental treatment over two years through the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS). Contact our dental clinic to check eligibility and book.