Health Info > Health Checks & Blood Test Published on : May 6, 2024

Annual Health Checks For Teens In Australia - A Guide

Written by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist

Navigating the adolescent years can be complex, with rapid physical, emotional, and social changes. Regular health checks serve as a critical foundation for ensuring the well-being and early detection of health issues in teenagers. These assessments are not only pivotal for addressing immediate health concerns but also act as a preventive measure against potential future challenges. This comprehensive guide expands on the recommended health examinations for teenagers, underscoring the significance of proactive health management during these formative years.

Comprehensive Health Evaluations

1. General Physical Exams

An annual check-up is essential for monitoring a teen’s overall health, including physical growth and developmental milestones. These exams should cover a wide range of checks, such as blood pressure monitoring to detect early signs of hypertension and body mass index (BMI) evaluations to ensure healthy growth patterns. Height and weight measurements provide insights into a teen’s growth trends, helping identify potential issues such as obesity or growth delays.

2. Immunisation Schedules

Adolescence is a critical period for immunisations, offering protection against diseases that can affect teens and their communities. An annual review of vaccination records ensures that teens are up-to-date with immunisations like the meningococcal vaccine to prevent meningitis, the HPV vaccine to guard against human papillomavirus infections, and boosters for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Seasonal flu shots are also recommended to safeguard against influenza, a virus that poses significant risks to teen health annually.

Mental and Behavioural Health

3. Mental Health Assessments

The teenage years are marked by significant emotional and psychological development. Screenings for mental health issues are crucial for identifying conditions such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders early. Providing a safe space for teens to discuss their feelings, experiences, and concerns can facilitate early intervention and support. Access to mental health professionals and resources, such as counsellors or therapists, can offer teens the tools they need to navigate these challenges effectively.

4. Nutritional Assessments

Proper nutrition is foundational to teen health and development. Regular discussions about eating habits, nutritional needs, and body image are vital. Health practitioners can play a key role in educating teens about the importance of balanced diets, identifying signs of eating disorders, and promoting a positive body image. These conversations can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and foster healthy attitudes towards food and body image.

Reproductive and Sexual Health

5. Sexual Health Education and Screenings

With many teens becoming sexually active, education on sexual health and access to confidential screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are imperative. Health professionals should offer guidance on safe sex practices, STI prevention, and contraception options. Encouraging open communication about sexual health can empower teens to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships.

6. Menstrual and Reproductive Health

For female teens, regular discussions about menstrual cycles, reproductive health, and any menstrual irregularities are essential. These conversations can address common concerns, debunk myths about menstruation and sexuality, and discuss contraception choices. Understanding the range of normal menstrual patterns and identifying potential issues like dysmenorrhoea (painful periods) or amenorrhoea (absence of menstruation) are crucial aspects of female adolescent care.

Lifestyle and Environmental Health

7. Physical Activity Guidance

Encouraging an active lifestyle is crucial for teen health. Assessments should include discussions about exercise habits and recommendations for physical activity tailored to each teen’s interests and lifestyle. Regular physical activity helps prevent chronic conditions such as obesity and diabetes and supports mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

8. Risk Behaviour Discussions

Adolescence is a period when individuals are more likely to experiment with substances, including tobacco, vaping, alcohol, and recreational drugs, dangerous driving, and engage in risky sexual behaviours. Health checks provide an opportunity for healthcare providers to discuss the physical and mental health risks associated with these behaviours. Providing teens with factual information, resources, and support can guide them toward making safer choices.

Age-Specific Screenings

Early Teens (13-15 years): Focus on the transition from childhood, monitoring physical changes of puberty, and beginning crucial conversations about mental health and risk behaviours. This period sets the foundation for healthy lifestyle choices and establishes a rapport with healthcare providers.
Mid-Teens (16-17 years): Attention shifts to more detailed discussions about sexual health, mental well-being, and preparing for the future. Screenings may become more tailored, with an emphasis on individual health needs and concerns.
Late Teens (18-19 years): As teens approach adulthood, the focus includes preparing them for independent health decisions and transitions to adult healthcare services. Discussions can cover a broader range of topics, including college life, work, relationships, and adult responsibilities.

Talk to a GP now for a quick consult and get medical advice for your child.

Can a Telehealth Doctor Help with the Health Check-Ups?

Telehealth appointments have emerged as a vital tool in providing accessible healthcare services to teenagers. It offers a flexible option for consultations, especially beneficial for mental health services, sexual health education, and managing chronic conditions. Telehealth can facilitate ongoing care and support, allowing teens to engage with healthcare providers from the privacy and comfort of their homes. However, it’s crucial to complement telehealth services with in-person visits when physical examinations or vaccinations are required.

In Australia, minors around 14 to 15 years old can often consent to their own medical or telehealth treatments based on “Gillick competence,” which evaluates their understanding and intelligence regarding the treatment. However, the specific age may vary by state or territory and the details of the medical consultation.