Conduct early detection screenings for children
Service description
Statutory health insurance plans cover the costs of early detection medical examinations for insured children, also known as “U-examinations.” In Hesse, U-exams are mandatory until a child reaches the age of six, in accordance with the Hessian Child Health Protection Act. They are designed to detect diseases early that could jeopardize a child’s physical, mental, or psychosocial development. Until a child turns six, this also includes early detection examinations for dental, oral, and jaw disorders—for example, assessing the risk of tooth decay and providing advice on nutrition and oral hygiene.
The Joint Federal Committee sets forth the details regarding the content, nature, and scope of the examinations in its guidelines for the early detection of diseases in children (U1 through U9).
Procedure
To schedule an appointment, please contact your treating physician. For more information, please contact your health insurance provider.
Competent Authority
The attending pediatrician conducts the health examination.
Starting with the U4 well-child checkup, the Hessian Child Health Center invites children to come in for an examination.
Prerequisites
Insured children are generally entitled to early detection screenings. However, the following screening intervals must be observed:
- U1 Immediately after birth
- U2: Days 3–10 of Life
- U3: Weeks 4–5 of life
- U4: 3rd–4th Month of Life
- U5: 6–7 months of age
- U6: 10–12 months of age
- U7: 21–24 months of age
- U7a: 34th–36th month of life
- U8: 46th–48th month of life
- U9: 60th–64th month of life
What documents are required?
For the checkups, you will need your child’s electronic health card and the child health record booklet (“Yellow Booklet”), which you will receive immediately after birth.
What fees apply?
There are no copayments for the U1 through U9 health checkups for children.
The U10 and U11 pediatric checkups are offered by many health insurance providers as optional benefits. Please check with your health insurance provider to see if they will cover the costs.
Legal basis
Legal remedy
An appeal may be filed against a health insurance company’s decision. If the appeal is denied, a lawsuit may be filed with the competent social court.
Applications / Forms
A valid electronic health card is required to verify that you have insurance.
Supporting Organizations