Health screening for adolescents explained
The J1 examination, a preventive health check-up offered to adolescents between the ages of 12 and 14, plays a crucial role in supporting the physical, psychological, and social development of young people during a critical stage of growth.
The examination, which takes approximately half an hour, is conducted by pediatricians or general practitioners in children's and youth doctors' practices and general practitioners' practices. It encompasses a thorough medical examination, including measurements of body size, weight, heart and lung checks, blood pressure determination, and a genital exam (if agreed upon).
The process also includes screening for vision or hearing problems, discussing lifestyle factors, and addressing any questions or concerns the adolescent or parents might have. It is an opportunity for young people to have their health checked, as some diseases can first manifest in adolescence.
For the appointment, it is important to bring the child's health insurance card, the vaccination record (Impfpass), any previous medical records relevant to the adolescent’s health, and a list or notes of any symptoms, concerns, or questions. This helps the doctor have a complete overview of the adolescent’s health history to make informed assessments during the J1 examination.
Regarding confidentiality, the results of the J1 exam are confidential between the adolescent and the doctor. Although parents may be informed about general health issues, the adolescent has a right to privacy regarding sensitive topics, especially related to mental health, sexual health, or personal habits. The doctor ensures that medical information is handled discreetly and only shared with consent or when there is a significant health risk.
Young people can decide whether the doctor's office should inform their parents about the J1 results, except in cases of serious illness detection. A urine sample is part of the J1 examination.
The J1 examination is free of charge and is voluntary. Participation in the J1 examination is lower compared to the U examination, with less than half of families taking advantage of it, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).
In summary, the J1 exam serves as an important developmental health check to support adolescents during a key stage of growth, requiring preparation with relevant documents and is governed by confidentiality rules that protect the young patient's privacy. The examination includes a variety of components, including but not limited to a physical examination, a discussion about puberty, and discussions about sexual health and hygiene. Its purpose is to help young people navigate the physical and emotional changes of puberty and to ensure their overall health and well-being.
- The J1 examination, a part of health-and-wellness for adolescents, comprises fitness-and-exercise components such as checking heart and lung functions, emphasizing the importance of physical health during growth.
- Beyond physical health, mental-health discussions are kept private between the adolescent and the doctor, highlighting the importance of therapies-and-treatments for mental well-being during this critical stage.
- Aside from confidential health discussions, the J1 examination also screens for vision or hearing issues, aligning it with overall health-and-wellness initiatives.
