What is the procedure of the U6?

The U6 examination includes a clear structure so that a comprehensive assessment of the entire child’s developmental state during the first year of life can be made. Through a conversation with the parents, the pediatrician first attempts to gain a rough overview of the baby’s development to date. The doctor will ask about the medical history, possible behavioral problems, sleep and eating habits and any allergies that may exist.

This is followed by an extensive physical examination of the child as well as a routine measurement, which includes body weight and height. This is followed by the specific examination focus and tests specific to U6 in order to be able to assess above all the state of mental, physical and motor development in comparison with peers. At the end of the screening, the results of the examination are discussed with the parents and any questions that may arise are clarified.

In addition, the doctor will advise on the further procedure regarding the next preventive medical checkups and vaccinations. From the 11th month of life onwards, it is recommended to have live vaccinations, which include rubella, measles, mumps and chickenpox. These are carried out as multiple vaccinations between the 11th and 14th month of life.In addition, a refresher of the large six-times vaccination consisting of tetanus, pertussis, diphtheria, polio, Haemophilus Influenzea, hepatitis B, as well as a refresher of the pneumococci is pending. In addition, the doctor once again emphasizes the importance of proper dental care for the baby and points out that sweet baby food from the bottle is very harmful to the baby’s teeth.

Does my child have to go to U6?

The preventive medical checkups for infants and children are recommendations of pediatricians, the youth welfare office and the health system. The regular observance of this preventive program serves the mental and motor development of the child, as well as the early recognition of developmental delays. The implementation of the U6 is not mandatory by law.

In some federal states, however, parents are required to undergo this examination. If the parents do not comply with the request, one has to expect that the public health department will write to the parents again or send a report to other authorities, such as the youth welfare office. These measures are intended to ensure the well-being of the child.