Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health

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).

Learn more about specialist doctors

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 SocietyExternal Link to find a paediatrician near you.

Costs

The cost of seeing a paediatrician varies depending on the treatment. Contact the clinic before you attend 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 your insurance policy.

Profile

Sector

Conventional healthcare

Regulation

Commonwealth Government

Registration

Compulsory registration through the Medical Board of Australia

Minimum 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 and tests for your child.
  • If you would like another opinion regarding a treatment or medical condition, you should always seek a second opinion from another doctor.
  • Check the registration status of your paediatrician on the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation AgencyExternal Link (AHPRA) website.