Have the Purple Book appointments changed for all children?
Yes – as of 1 July 2017 the Purple Book appointments for all young children in WA have changed to 0-14 days, 8 weeks, 4 months, 12 months and 2 years.
What if I have concerns and my child is not due for a Purple Book appointment?
Talk to your community child health nurse about your concerns. They can then offer you the service that best suits your needs – this might include coming along to a local drop-in session or group session, booking a one-to-one appointment, or putting you in touch with other services that can help you.
If you live in the Perth metropolitan area and are unsure how to contact your local community child health nurse, call 1300 749 869 and the booking team will arrange for a nurse to contact you.
If you live in country WA you can contact your local child or community health centre directly.
If you think your child is not well, please see your doctor.
Will I get a new Purple Book?
Your community child health nurse will give you some new pages to add to your Purple Book at your next appointment (or download a copy PDF 624KB). Your Purple Book will then be up-to-date with information to match the new Child Health Program.
My child attended an 18 month health check as part of the ‘old’ schedule – can they still attend the new 2 year Purple Book appointment when they turn two?
Yes – you can attend each of the new Purple Book appointments that are relevant to your child.
Who is eligible for a 2 year old Purple Book appointment?
A 2 year old Purple Book appointment can be made for a child any time after their second birthday and before they turn 3 years of age.
My child is 3 years old – can I still see the community child health nurse?
Your child’s next routine health check is due when they start school, and your school will tell you more about this. If any concerns come up before your child starts school, support is still available from your community child health nurse.
Talk to your community child health nurse about your concerns and they can offer you the service that best suits your needs – this might include coming along to a local drop-in session or group session, or booking in a one-to-one appointment.
If you live in the Perth metropolitan area and are unsure how to contact your local community child health nurse, call 1300 749 869 and the booking team will arrange for a nurse to contact you.
If you live in country WA you can contact your local child or community health centre directly.
If you think your child is not well, please see your doctor.
What are drop-in sessions and when are they available?
Drop-in sessions are times when the community child health nurse is available to meet with parents/caregivers who have a quick question, would like parenting information or support, or would like to weigh their baby. You don’t need an appointment to attend a drop-in session.
Contact your local child health centre to find out when drop-in sessions happen in your area.
Any other questions?
If you have any questions or want more information, please contact your community child health nurse.