PREVENTIVE EXAMINATIONS OF CHILDREN IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES: SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES

Abstract

The aim: The aim of this study was to compare, analize and establish differences the recommendations for well-child visits and screenings till the age of 5 years in different countries . Materials and methods: The comparative analysis of the data from governmental recommendations for pediatricians from Germany, Ukraine and Poland is conducted. It was used the guideline for medical care for a child under 3 years (The Order №149) and for a healthy child from 4 to 18 years (The Order №434) in Ukraine, the book «Kinderuntersuchungsheft» in Germany and child’s examination book «Książeczka zdrowia dziecka» in Poland. Results: The number of visits to children by the doctors in Ukraine is 1.5-2 times higher than in other countries and the nurses visit are absent in Germany. The neonatal screening for genetic and metabolic diseases, updated in 2021 in Ukraine, corresponds to such screenings in other countries. Physical examination is performed in accordance with WHO standards in Ukraine, while in Poland and Germany the growth references are specially developed for the pediatric population. There was a difference in the age of hearing screening, examination of the hip joints, tactics for assessing vision by a pediatrician. The use of vitamin D, fluoride, iodine and vitamin K is recommended in Poland and Germany from the birth, while in Ukraine only vitamins are used. Conclusions: It was found that the differences and similarities in preventive program in Ukraine, Poland and Germany. The results of this study may be useful for improving primary pediatric care.