General Paediatrics

A general paediatrician is a medical doctor who specialises in the health of children from birth to early adulthood. Their role in neurodevelopment is crucial as they are often the first point of contact for families with concerns about a child's development, learning, or behaviour.

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis:

A general paediatrician conducts a comprehensive assessment that includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and developmental screening. This helps to identify or rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be affecting development. They are trained to recognise signs of neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), intellectual disability, and learning difficulties.

Providing Referrals and Coordinating Care:

Once a concern is identified, the paediatrician acts as a central coordinator for the child's care. They refer to and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of allied health professionals, which may include psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and educators. This collaborative approach ensures the child receives a comprehensive and tailored care plan.

Ongoing Management:

For many neurodevelopmental conditions, the paediatrician provides ongoing management. This can involve monitoring the child's progress, adjusting treatment plans as they grow, and providing parental guidance and support. They may also manage medication for certain conditions, such as ADHD, and help families navigate funding and support services like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia.

Advocacy and Education:

Paediatricians advocate for the child's needs in various settings, including schools. They help families and educators better understand the child's unique needs and strengths, promoting an environment that supports their development and well-being. They also provide vital education to parents on developmental milestones and the importance of early intervention.

Hunter Children's Clinics respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work, the Awabakal people. We also pay our respects to the Elders, cultures, and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across all communities. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide care on their traditional land and celebrate their enduring connection to Country.

Hunter Children's Clinics is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for every child, young person, and family. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care that respects the unique identities and needs of every child and family. Our commitment extends to creating a safe and welcoming space for Indigenous Australians, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, individuals with a disability, and people from all cultural and linguistic backgrounds.