The Japanese government has established in the Maternal and Child Health Law that medical examinations of children aged 1 year and 6 months and medical examinations of children aged 3 years are mandatory and must be performed by the prefectures where the child is registered.
Medical examinations are conducted at your municipality’s health center or at a designated hospital or public place designated by the municipality. The location and period are described in the notification of the child medical examination that the municipality must send by mail.
The content of these check-ups ranges from a visit to a pediatrician, a visit to the dentist and orientation about brushing teeth, orientation about health and nutrition, among others.
The tests are done to check the baby’s physical development (weight and size), his or her nutrition, whether there are any diseases or abnormalities, and to check for motor function disorders. There are tests to check mental development, speech disorders, and to check how the baby is doing with his or her vaccinations.
In the 2-year dental check-up, besides the consultation with the dentist, there is also guidance on tooth brushing and nutrition, among other topics.
What to bring at the time of the basic exam
The items that parents need to bring for the baby’s medical examination are specified in the municipality’s notification, so make sure you bring the requested items. In general, the items are as follows:
Essential belongings at the time of the exam
(1) Newborn’s vaccination booklet, with vaccination records (check this out)
(2) Health insurance card
(3) Certificate of Child Medical Expense Beneficiary
(4) Completed questionnaire
(5) Hygiene products such as tissues and wipes
(6) Drinks (water)
What to bring according to the child’s condition
(1) Diaper and wiping paper humidifier
(2) Toys
(3) Picture book
It is an opportunity to consult with a doctor or a public health nurse about the daily concerns of parents
