The Isle of Man’s Health Visiting Service is set to adjust the timetable for baby development reviews to align with public health guidelines in England.
The service, which supports families from pregnancy through to the start of school, is part of the Universal Healthy Child Programme. Manx Care announced that while most reviews will remain unchanged, the seven-to-nine-month review will now take place at one year, effective from 1 March.
Other appointments, including the three-to-four-month review and the school readiness review—both of which are not included in UK guidance—will continue as scheduled.
During each review, healthcare professionals assess various aspects of a child’s health and development. If additional support is needed, increased contact with the service will be offered. The reviews cover important topics such as breastfeeding, safer sleep, family mental health, immunization status, nutrition, oral health, speech, language, communication, and physical activity.
Parents who have concerns about their child’s health outside of the regular review schedule are encouraged to reach out to the team at several local health centers, including the Palatine and Kensington Health Centre, Cronk Coar in the east, Castletown Health Centre, Peel Medical Centre, or Ramsey Dalmeny House.
For further information, parents are advised to contact the Health Visiting Service directly.
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