Screening for Common Paediatric Conditions in Rural and Regional New South Wales: A Survey of Healthcare Professionals

David J Hodge, Martin Newby, Harrison Hamblin, Dr Jonny Taitz & Dr Alexa Seal

Introduction:

Early detection of paediatric conditions such as coeliac disease, type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), obesity, and developmental delay is critical to ensuring timely intervention and optimal long-term outcomes. In rural and regional New South Wales (NSW), where access to specialist care is often limited, general practitioners (GPs), rural generalists, and paediatricians play a central role in recognising and managing these conditions.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate current screening practices and perceived barriers among healthcare professionals working in these areas.

Method:

An anonymous, cross-sectional survey was distributed to clinicians across rural and regional NSW. The survey collected data on the frequency of routine screening for the four target conditions, how clinicians screen, and systemic or practice-level barriers to screening and follow-up. Both quantitative and qualitative responses were analysed to identify common themes and gaps.

Results:

Initial results show screening generally aligned to clinical guidelines across NSW. While most respondents reported routinely screening for coeliac, obesity, and T1DM, developmental delay was identified as the condition with the greatest perceived difficulty in both recognition and management. Screening for coeliac disease and T1DM does appear less consistent and may be symptom driven rather than proactive. Commonly cited barriers included limited access to specialists for referral, prolonged wait times for diagnostic and allied health services, and delayed presentation by patients due to geographic isolation or lack of awareness.

Implication:

This ongoing study aims to identify any gaps between recommended paediatric screening guidelines and the realities of practice in rural and regional NSW. Addressing these challenges will require targeted education, streamlined access to diagnostic and support services, and development of context-specific screening protocols. Strengthening these areas could improve early identification and management of paediatric conditions, ultimately enhancing health outcomes for children living outside metropolitan centres.