Health issues for prems

I have written a number of articles for the L’il Aussie Prems newsletter about health issues commonly faced by premature babies. The information is all available online but I have tried to summarise it and remove some of the jargon.

Remember that each baby is different, and you should always consult a medical professional about circumstances which relate specifically to your child.

Apnoea, bradycardia and desaturations

Jaundice in premature babies

Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC)

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and the premature baby

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)

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Premature babies may also require extra immunisations.

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If your child requires therapy services after leaving hospital and you are seeking private therapy but are concerned about the costs, you may be eligible for the Enhanced Primary Care Program.  This is a Medicare Rebate (currently just under $50 in 2009) for each of 5 private therapy sessions per year.  Eligibility is determined by your GP, who will send paperwork to Medicare.  You can nominate the therapist(s) you want your child to see (they need to be registered for the program), or you can ask your GP for a referral.

For more information contact Medicare - here’s the information online.