Child health surveillance became a core part of the General Medical Services (GMS) contract in April 2020 and is similarly reflected in Personal Medical Services (PMS) contracts. This essential service focuses on the monitoring and promotion of child health and development, often commonly referred to as the 6-8 week baby check.
The child health surveillance obligations outlined in the GMS contract are detailed under Section 9.6. These requirements apply to children under the age of five years and are a key part of ensuring early identification of any physical, mental, or social developmental concerns.
Under Section 9.6.1, GMS and PMS contractors are required to:
Provide child health surveillance services as described in Section 9.6.2 — unless a parent or guardian refuses to allow a particular examination.
Maintain accurate records of each child’s development, as specified in Section 9.6.3.
According to Section 9.6.2, the child health surveillance services include:
Monitoring the child’s health, well-being, and development:
By considering any relevant information about the child received by or on behalf of the contractor.
By observing or examining the child directly during appointments or interactions.
Detecting deviations from normal development across physical, mental, and social domains.
Conducting examinations at intervals agreed with the local Integrated Care Board (ICB), in line with the nationally agreed, evidence-based child health programme.
As outlined in Section 9.6.3, contractors must:
Keep an accurate and up-to-date record of each child’s development from the first examination until the child reaches five years of age.
Record any responses from parents regarding offers for their child to undergo any of the recommended examinations.
Ensure that records are updated as soon as is reasonably practical following each examination or developmental check.
This structured approach to child health surveillance ensures that healthcare providers are proactively monitoring child development and addressing any concerns at the earliest opportunity. Practices are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these contractual obligations to ensure they are fully compliant and providing the best possible care for children under their care.
For more detailed information, practices should refer directly to Section 9.6 of the GMS contract or contact the LMC for further guidance.