Every parent knows the particular worry of a sick child. The 2am cough, the fever that will not settle, the question that runs on a loop: is this something we ride out at home, or something we need a doctor for? Winter on the Gold Coast makes that question a regular one, as coughs, colds, and other bugs make their rounds through childcare centres and classrooms. Having a GP who knows your child and takes their symptoms seriously makes all the difference.
At Haan Health, we care for children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. We understand that a visit to the doctor can feel daunting for little ones, so we do everything we can to make each appointment calm, reassuring, and as comfortable as possible for your child and for you. This guide walks through the key stages of children’s health and when to reach out.
Newborn and Early Childhood Checks
The first years of life are critical for development, and regular checks help make sure everything is on track. Our GPs conduct thorough health checks for newborns, infants, and toddlers, assessing growth, developmental milestones, feeding, sleep, and general wellbeing. Just as importantly, these visits are a chance for new parents to ask questions and get reassurance during a stage that can feel overwhelming.
For evidence-based information on child development and everyday parenting questions between visits, the Australian Raising Children Network is a trustworthy resource that complements your GP’s advice.
Childhood Vaccinations and the Immunisation Schedule
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect your child’s health. Our GPs follow the Australian National Immunisation Program schedule and provide all recommended childhood vaccines from birth through to adolescence. We aim to make each vaccination appointment straightforward and as comfortable as possible for your child.
If your child has fallen behind, there is no need to worry. Catch-up vaccinations are available, and our GPs can review your child’s immunisation history and arrange a schedule to get them back on track. With winter being peak season for respiratory illness, it is also a good time to ask your GP about the annual flu vaccine, which is free under the National Immunisation Program for children aged six months to under five years.
Winter Illnesses and When to See a GP
Children get sick, especially in winter, and most common illnesses pass with rest and care at home. But some need a doctor’s eye. Our GPs assess and treat a wide range of childhood illnesses, including ear infections, respiratory infections, tonsillitis, gastroenteritis, skin infections, and allergic reactions.
As a general guide, it is worth booking an appointment if your child has a fever that persists, is having difficulty breathing, is unusually drowsy or difficult to wake, is not drinking fluids or has significantly reduced wet nappies, or if you simply feel that something is not right. Parental instinct matters, and we would always rather see a child and offer reassurance than have a worried parent wait at home.
Being seen promptly also helps avoid the frustrating experience of a minor illness dragging on or turning into something more serious. Our doctors take children’s symptoms seriously and will explain clearly what is going on, what to watch for at home, and when to come back if things do not improve. If your child does need medication, testing, or a referral, we can arrange it quickly, and with onsite pathology at Broadbeach, many tests can be handled without a separate trip elsewhere.
Development, Behaviour, and Mental Health
Children’s health is about far more than illness. If you have concerns about your child’s speech and language, motor skills, social development, behaviour, or learning, our GPs provide a thorough assessment and can arrange referrals to paediatricians, speech pathologists, or occupational therapists where appropriate.
Children’s mental health matters too. Our GPs offer compassionate assessment for anxiety, school refusal, mood changes, and behavioural concerns, with referrals to child psychologists and paediatricians when needed. For children managing ongoing conditions such as asthma, eczema, allergies, or type 1 diabetes, we provide structured care plans, regular reviews, and coordination with specialists.
Adolescent Health
Teenagers have their own distinct health needs, and sometimes their own questions they would rather ask privately. Our GPs provide a confidential, non-judgmental space for adolescents to discuss physical health, mental health, sexual health, and the challenges of growing up, with or without a parent present, according to age and circumstances. In Queensland, competent young people can consent to their own medical treatment, and our GPs always act in the young person’s best interest.
Making Doctor Visits Easier for Little Ones
For many children, and plenty of parents, a trip to the doctor can feel stressful. We work hard to change that. Our GPs take the time to explain things clearly to both parents and, where appropriate, to children themselves, respecting their growing ability to understand and take part in their own health. A calm, friendly, unhurried appointment helps children build a positive relationship with healthcare that can last a lifetime. Small things help too, such as bringing a favourite toy, explaining the visit to your child beforehand in simple terms, and booking at a time of day when your child is usually settled.
School and Childcare Documentation
Family life comes with paperwork, and we can help with that as well. Haan Health provides medical certificates, school documentation, and clearance letters as needed for school absences, sporting events, and childcare requirements. Sorting these out during a regular appointment saves you an extra trip and keeps everything in one place with a GP who already knows your child.
A Family GP You Can Rely On
From the first newborn check to the teenage years, having a consistent GP who knows your family brings real peace of mind. We welcome children of all ages as new patients across our Broadbeach clinic, convenient for families in Surfers Paradise, Mermaid Beach, and Mermaid Waters, and our Upper Coomera clinic serving Coomera, Helensvale, and Pacific Pines.
Book a children’s health appointment at Haan Health Medical Centre in Broadbeach or Upper Coomera by calling (07) 5531 6033 or booking online. We would be glad to care for your family.