The health of our children is the most important thing we can protect. Different ages of children require specific medical care that matches their development and individual needs. With the help of appropriate prevention programmes, it is possible not only to respond to a child’s current state of health, but also to prevent serious problems. Benefit programmes, which target different age groups, provide comprehensive health care that includes regular check-ups, specialised tests and counselling. What are the key aspects of medical care based on the age of the child and how do the different Benefit programmes help?
“Preventive checkups are not just a formality, but an essential step toward long-term health. They can prevent a number of serious diseases and ensure a better quality of life.”MuDR. Heller
1. Benefit BABY Program (0 – 3 years): health basics from birth
The first year of life is the most important period for a child, which determines his health foundations for life. Regular monitoring of the child’s development, prevention of infections and overall health care are provided at this age.
What does the programme involve?
- Preventive check-ups: during the first year of the child’s life, parents meet with the paediatrician regularly (e.g. at 2, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months) to monitor the child’s growth and development.
- Vaccination: the programme ensures that vaccinations are correctly timed according to the vaccination schedule, which is crucial for preventing serious diseases.
- Advice for parents: doctors provide parents with important recommendations on nutrition, newborn care, sleep habits and safety.
2. Benefit CHILD Program (3 – 5 years): Healthy start to school and life
Children aged 2-5 years experience rapid psychomotor development. At this age, it is important for parents to keep an eye on their child’s health not only in terms of vaccinations, but also to monitor growth, motor development and mental development.
What does the programme involve?
- Growth and development check: the paediatrician monitors the child’s motor and speech skills, referring to specialists if necessary to address developmental disorders.
- Vaccination: vaccination against diseases such as measles, rubella and mumps.
- Monitoring eye and hearing health: At this age, it’s important to check if your child has vision or hearing problems, which can affect their school and social development.
- Nutrition and hygiene counselling: the focus is on good nutrition, developing healthy habits and preventing obesity.
3. Benefit JUNIOR Programme (6 – 15 years): preparation for school age and puberty
Care for children aged 6 to 15 focuses on preventing illness, monitoring changes in physical and mental development, and preparing for puberty and later adolescence.
What does the programme involve?
- Regular checkups: children have regular preventive checkups that include growth checks, muscle development and fitness assessments.
- Psychosocial health: Mental health issues, whether it’s stress from school or problems with peers, become common during this period. The program focuses on monitoring mental health and early intervention.
- Vaccinations: continue to receive regular vaccinations against diseases such as meningococcal infections or papillomavirus vaccines.
- Healthy lifestyle: Programmes promote an active lifestyle, prevention of addictions (alcohol, smoking) and motivate children to exercise regularly.
4. Benefit ADULT Programme (15+ years): prevention and health maintenance at all stages of life
After the age of 15, care focuses on the prevention of civilization diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and others. This program is ideal for young adults who want to stay healthy into adulthood.
What does the programme involve?
- Preventive check-ups: regular check-ups for general health, including blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar monitoring.
- Advice on nutrition and exercise: Advice on healthy eating, exercise and regular physical activity to ensure long-term health.
- Risk factor monitoring: prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer, including screening tests and referrals for specialist consultations.
- Mental health: Mental health care, stress prevention and support for coping with work and personal life.
Conclusion
Children’s medical care varies according to their age, so it is important to choose the right prevention programme to meet the child’s current needs. Benefit programs offer comprehensive and individualized care that not only monitors a child’s health, but also supports parents in prevention and early diagnosis. Children’s health is an investment in their future, and early care can mean a better quality of life for a lifetime.
