how to medical clinics work in aus

[bnatural]

Hello all,
I'm just wondering how the baby medical clinics work here.
I took my daughter to a baby centre (whatever they are called) to get weighed etc (she hated being prodded under the lights so we haven't been back)
I'm just wondering.. these are government funded yes? so up until what age can you take your child/children there till for free? I'm not sure how it all works..Do you just ring to make a medical appointment for all concerns.. and weighing, questions etc? Do baby practitioners tend to work in the medical centres also..say the bulk billing ones? Should you choose this option instead of going to the baby medical centres.. sorry it's late for me and i'm tiiirreedd.. can't think of the correct terms to use .. haha

[Funkychicken]

Generally, after baby is born you will receive a home visit from a Maternal and Child Health Nurse. She will do a check on your baby and then make an appointment for you to come to the Maternal and Child Health Centre within a couple of weeks (sooner if it is your first bub). You have regular visits to this centre for your bub to be weighed and measured etc..
These visits are all free and continue periodically until the child is about 3 1/2 (I think).
But, it is also optional. You don't have to go but when they are little it is a great way to 'see them growing'.
If at any time you are concerned for your child's/baby's wellbeing you can ring the centre or just go to your GP. Some GP's offer bulk-billing, some don't. I personally believe it is more about finding a GP that is right for your family than whether you are out of pocket a few dollars. I have a fantastic GP and he has looked after all of us for 10 years now and I wouldn't trade that for all the bulk-billing in the world.
Good Luck.:)

[bnatural]

that's awesome! Thanks so much funky chicken.. ya information warrier you :thumbsup: