Description
A paediatrician is a specialist doctor who improves the health of children and young people. They diagnose a wide range of medical conditions and treat infants, children and adolescents. They care for children and young people with day-to-day illnesses, minor injuries and infectious diseases. Paediatricians can also specialise in many areas of health related to children including development, behaviour, hormones (endocrinology) or heart conditions (cardiology).
Services provided
- Diagnosis and treatment
- Family practice
- Specialist doctor
- Child health
- Management of acute and chronic conditions
- Medical and health check ups
- Information and advice
- Health advice
- Screening and tests
Eligibility
An appointment with a paediatrician usually requires a referral from your doctor.
How to access
Contact the Australian Paediatric to find a paediatrician near you.
Costs
The cost of seeing a paediatrician varies depending on the treatment. Contact the clinic before youattend if you are unsure of the cost.
Medicare
Some paediatric fees are covered by Medicare.
Private health funds
Paediatric fees are covered by some private health funds but your coverage will depend on yourinsurance policy.
Website
Australian Paediatric SocietyProfile
Sector
Conventional healthcareRegulation
Commonwealth GovernmentRegistration
Compulsory registration through the Medical Board of AustraliaMinimum qualifications
Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of Physicians (FRACP)Tip
You and your child should feel comfortable speaking with the paediatrician.
Important
- Always ask questions if you are unclear about information and always follow up on treatments andtests for your child.
- If you would like another opinion regarding a treatment or medical condition, you should alwaysseek a second opinion from another doctor.
- Check the registration status of your paediatrician on the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation
(AHPRA) website.
Complaints
- Health Complaints , Complaints and Information, call 1300 582 113
- Australian Health Practitioner Regulation (AHPRA) in your state, call 1300 419 495
- Better Health Channel - Complaints about health services