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Healthcare USA When to seek medical help for your child’s IBD Learn how to recognise worsening IBD symptoms in your child, when to contact their healthcare team, and when to seek urgent or emergency medical care in the USA. When your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, it can sometimes be difficult to know whether a new symptom is part of their usual condition or a sign that they need medical attention. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can change over time, and symptoms may worsen even when your child is taking medication. Knowing which warning signs to look for, who to contact, and when to seek emergency care can help you respond quickly and confidently. In the USA, your child’s pediatric gastroenterology team should provide guidance on managing symptoms between appointments and explain when urgent medical assessment is needed. 🟡 When should you contact your child’s IBD team? Contact your child’s gastroenterologist or IBD nurse if you notice new symptoms, a change in their usual pattern, or signs that their condition may be worsening. These may include: More frequent diarrhoea or bowel movements than usual. Blood or increased mucus in the stool. New or persistent abdominal pain. Increased urgency or difficulty reaching the toilet. Reduced appetite or unexplained weight loss. Unusual tiredness, weakness, or reduced energy. Fever or symptoms that could indicate an infection. Symptoms that return after a period of feeling well. You should also contact the team if your child experiences possible medication side effects, struggles to take their medication, or has missed important doses. Do not assume that every symptom is caused by IBD. Infections and other conditions can produce similar symptoms, so your child may need further assessment or testing. 🟠 What symptoms need urgent medical assessment? Some symptoms require prompt medical assessment, even if your child has experienced flares before. Seek urgent medical advice if your child has: Increasing or persistent abdominal pain. Significant or increasing blood in the stool. Repeated vomiting or difficulty keeping fluids down. Signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination, a very dry mouth, or dizziness. A persistent fever, particularly if your child takes medication that suppresses the immune system. Marked weakness, worsening fatigue, or a sudden deterioration in their general condition. Contact your child’s medical team promptly for advice about where they should be assessed. If you cannot reach the team and your child’s symptoms are worsening, seek urgent care. 🔴 When should you go to the emergency department? Some symptoms may indicate a serious complication and should not wait for a routine appointment. Seek emergency medical care if your child has: Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain. A swollen or distended abdomen with significant pain. Heavy rectal bleeding or bleeding accompanied by faintness or weakness. Persistent vomiting with severe pain or an inability to keep fluids down. Fainting, confusion, difficulty waking, or signs of severe dehydration. Difficulty breathing or another sign of a severe allergic reaction. Call 911 in the USA if your child appears seriously unwell or needs emergency assistance. Do not delay emergency care while waiting for a response from their gastroenterologist. 🌡️ What if your child develops a fever? Fever can occur with infections and other illnesses, but it is particularly important to take it seriously if your child is receiving immunosuppressive treatment. Medications such as azathioprine and some biologic therapies can affect the immune system and may increase the risk of certain infections. If your child develops a fever: Contact their healthcare team for advice, particularly if they take immunosuppressive medication. Tell the clinician which medications your child takes and when the last doses were given. Watch for additional symptoms, including chills, worsening abdominal pain, vomiting, or unusual drowsiness. Seek emergency care if your child appears seriously unwell. Follow any fever-management instructions provided by your child’s specialist, as recommendations may differ depending on their medication and medical history. 💊 What if you think your child is having a flare? A flare occurs when IBD becomes more active, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bleeding, or fatigue. If you suspect a flare, contact your child’s IBD team. They may recommend blood tests, stool tests, or other investigations to assess inflammation and rule out infection. While waiting for advice: Encourage your child to drink fluids if they can tolerate them. Keep a record of bowel movements, pain, bleeding, and other symptoms. Continue prescribed medication according to the treatment plan unless the medical team advises otherwise. Avoid starting new medicines, including anti-diarrhoeal medicines or anti-inflammatory painkillers, without checking with a healthcare professional. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe before contacting the team. Early assessment can help identify what is happening and whether treatment needs to change. 📞 Who should you contact? Knowing who to call before a problem occurs can make a stressful situation easier to manage. Your child’s pediatric gastroenterologist or IBD nurse Contact the specialist team about worsening IBD symptoms, possible flares, medication concerns, and questions about your child’s treatment plan. Your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider They can assess general health concerns and help coordinate care with the gastroenterology team. Urgent care An urgent care centre may be suitable for certain non-life-threatening problems, depending on the symptoms and the facility’s capabilities. However, many centres cannot provide the specialist assessment or paediatric investigations needed for a significant IBD complication. Emergency department Go to an emergency department for severe symptoms, significant bleeding, suspected serious complications, or when your child appears seriously unwell. Call 911 for a medical emergency. 📋 How can you prepare for an unexpected flare? Having a plan in place can help you act quickly if your child becomes unwell. Keep the following information accessible: Your child’s gastroenterologist and IBD clinic contact details. A current list of medications and doses. Known allergies and relevant medical history. Your child’s usual symptoms and any recent changes. Instructions for managing a suspected flare. Details of your health insurance and preferred hospital, if applicable. Ask your child’s specialist to provide a written plan explaining which symptoms can be monitored at home, when to call the clinic, and when to seek urgent or emergency care. If your child is at school, make sure the appropriate staff know whom to contact if symptoms worsen and what steps to take in an emergency. ❤️ Trust your instincts as a parent You know your child’s usual behaviour and symptoms better than anyone. If they seem unusually unwell, their symptoms are different from previous flares, or you are worried about a sudden change, seek medical advice. You do not need to wait for visible blood or severe pain before contacting the healthcare team. Children with IBD may need assessment for symptoms that are not obviously related to their digestive condition. Knowing when to seek help can make a real difference. Keep your child’s medical team involved, follow their personalised advice, and seek emergency care whenever symptoms suggest a serious problem. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Filling prescriptions and using pharmacies Learn how to fill your child’s IBD prescriptions in the USA, understand pharmacy labels, organise refills, use specialty pharmacies, and navigate insurance requirements to help avoid interruptions to treatment. Read More Finding a Pediatric IBD Specialist A guide to finding a pediatric IBD specialist in the USA, including where to look, what to ask, understanding referrals and insurance, and finding the right medical team for your child. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Understanding IBD Medication Learn how doctors in the USA choose IBD medications for children, including the factors that influence treatment decisions, different medication options, and how your child’s individual needs guide their care. Read More Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More IBD appointments, tests and monitoring Understand what to expect from IBD appointments, medical tests, and ongoing monitoring in the USA, including how to prepare, track results, and coordinate your child’s care. Read More Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Understanding your child’s IBD care team Learn about the healthcare professionals involved in your child’s IBD care in the USA, what each person does, and how they work together to support your child’s health and wellbeing. Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More

Medications USA Understanding IBD Medication Learn how doctors in the USA choose IBD medications for children, including the factors that influence treatment decisions, different medication options, and how your child’s individual needs guide their care. When your child is diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, medication may become an important part of their treatment plan. The aim is to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, help the intestines heal, and maintain remission. There are several types of medication used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children. The right treatment depends on your child’s diagnosis, disease severity, age, response to previous treatments, and individual health needs. Understanding what each medication does, how it is taken, and what monitoring is required can help you feel more confident supporting your child. 🩺 Why do children with IBD need medication? Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause inflammation in the digestive tract. Even when symptoms improve, inflammation may sometimes remain. IBD medications are used to achieve different treatment goals, including: Inducing remission: Bringing active inflammation under control and improving symptoms. Maintaining remission: Keeping inflammation controlled and reducing the risk of future flares. Healing the intestines: Helping the digestive tract recover from inflammation. Preventing complications: Reducing the risk of ongoing inflammation causing damage over time. Your child’s doctor will monitor symptoms, test results, and overall health to assess whether treatment is working. 💊 What types of IBD medication are used in the USA? Children may receive different medications depending on whether they have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and how active their condition is. 5-ASAs (aminosalicylates) Medications such as mesalamine are commonly used for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. They help reduce inflammation in the lining of the colon. They are generally less effective for Crohn’s disease, and their suitability depends on the location and type of inflammation. Corticosteroids Steroids, such as prednisone or budesonide, may be prescribed for short periods to help control an active flare. They are not usually used as long-term maintenance treatment because prolonged use can cause significant side effects, particularly in growing children. Immunomodulators Medications such as azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) affect the immune system and may be used in selected circumstances to help maintain remission. These medications require appropriate blood tests and safety monitoring. They can take time to work and are not generally used as rapid treatment for an acute flare. Biologic therapies Biologics are targeted medicines that act on specific parts of the immune system involved in inflammation. Examples include: Infliximab (Remicade and biosimilars). Adalimumab (Humira and biosimilars). Vedolizumab (Entyvio). Ustekinumab (Stelara and biosimilars). Other biologic treatments may be considered depending on the diagnosis, age, and clinical circumstances. Biologics may be given through an intravenous infusion or an injection under the skin. The exact schedule depends on the medication and your child’s treatment plan. Small-molecule medicines Some oral medicines, such as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, are used for certain forms of IBD in selected patients. Their suitability for children depends on the specific medicine, age, indication, and regulatory approval. Your child’s specialist can explain whether these treatments are appropriate. Nutritional therapy For some children with Crohn’s disease, exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) may be recommended to help induce remission. This involves obtaining nutrition from a prescribed liquid formula for a defined period. Nutritional therapy is usually managed with support from the gastroenterology team and a dietitian. 💊 How are IBD medications chosen in the USA? In the United States, your child’s pediatric gastroenterologist will recommend treatment based on their individual circumstances and current clinical guidelines. The doctor may consider: Whether your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The location and severity of inflammation. Your child’s growth and nutritional status. Previous treatments and their effectiveness. Potential side effects and other health conditions. Whether medication is taken at home or administered at a healthcare facility. Insurance coverage and access to treatment. Some medications are approved for specific ages and diagnoses, while others may be prescribed off-label when the specialist considers them appropriate. Your child’s doctor can explain the evidence, benefits, and risks relevant to their situation. 🧪 Why do IBD medications require monitoring? Some IBD medications affect the immune system or can cause side effects that need to be identified early. Depending on the treatment, your child may need: Blood tests to check blood cell counts and liver function. Kidney function tests when relevant. Screening for certain infections before treatment. Vaccination reviews before starting immunosuppressive therapy. Ongoing assessment of symptoms and inflammation. Medication-specific checks for side effects. The monitoring schedule varies by medication and may be more frequent when treatment begins or doses change. Contact your child’s healthcare team if they develop concerning symptoms, such as a persistent fever, signs of infection, unusual bruising, or other unexpected changes. 🛡️ What should parents know about medication safety? Helping your child take medication safely is an important part of managing IBD. Follow the prescribed schedule: Give medication as directed by your child’s healthcare team. Do not change doses independently: Speak with the prescribing clinician before stopping or adjusting treatment. Check before giving new medicines: Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using over-the-counter medicines, supplements, or herbal products. Keep vaccinations up to date: Some vaccines require special consideration for children taking immunosuppressive medication. Ask the healthcare team which vaccines are appropriate. Know what to do when your child is unwell: Ask for clear instructions about fever, infections, missed doses, and when to seek medical advice. Store medicines correctly: Follow the packaging instructions, especially for medicines that require refrigeration. If your child takes a medicine that suppresses the immune system, ask the specialist about infection precautions and any additional monitoring that may be needed. 💳 Understanding medication costs and insurance The cost of IBD medication in the United States can vary considerably. Expenses depend on the medication, insurance plan, pharmacy, infusion provider, and any financial assistance available. Some treatments require prior authorisation from the insurance company before they can be prescribed or administered. Certain biologics may also be subject to step therapy, which means trying another treatment first, depending on the plan and clinical circumstances. Before starting a new medication, ask: Is the medication covered by our insurance plan? Does it require prior authorisation? What will our out-of-pocket costs be? Does the medication need to be obtained through a particular pharmacy? Are infusion appointments covered separately? Are manufacturer assistance programs or other financial support options available? If a medication is denied, ask your child’s healthcare team and insurer about the reason for the decision and the available appeal process. The medical team may be able to provide supporting clinical information. 🏫 Helping your child manage medication at school Medication can affect school routines, particularly if your child needs doses during the school day or attends camps and excursions. Speak with your child’s school about: Whether medication needs to be stored or administered at school. How doses will be managed during excursions and overnight camps. What to do if your child feels unwell during the school day. Who should be contacted in an emergency. School medication policies vary across the USA, so check the requirements of your child’s school district. As your child gets older, encourage them to learn the names of their medications, understand why they take them, and recognise when they need help. ❤️ What if your child’s medication is not working? Sometimes a medication does not control inflammation sufficiently, loses effectiveness over time, or causes side effects that make it unsuitable. If your child’s symptoms return or their tests show ongoing inflammation, their gastroenterologist may reassess the treatment plan. This could involve checking medication levels, investigating other causes of symptoms, adjusting treatment, or considering a different therapy. Do not assume that worsening symptoms are simply part of living with IBD. Contact your child’s medical team to discuss changes and follow their advice. 🔗 Helpful resources Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ — Information about IBD treatments, medication safety, and family support. Your child’s pediatric gastroenterologist: Ask for a written medication and monitoring plan tailored to your child. Your pharmacist: Get advice about administration, storage, interactions, and missed doses. Your health insurance provider: Confirm coverage, prior authorisation requirements, and out-of-pocket costs. IBD treatment can feel complicated at first, but you do not need to understand everything at once. Your child’s healthcare team can explain the purpose of each medication, help you manage monitoring and side effects, and work with your family to find a treatment plan that supports your child’s health and everyday life. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like IBD appointments, tests and monitoring Understand what to expect from IBD appointments, medical tests, and ongoing monitoring in the USA, including how to prepare, track results, and coordinate your child’s care. Read More Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Understanding your child’s IBD care team Learn about the healthcare professionals involved in your child’s IBD care in the USA, what each person does, and how they work together to support your child’s health and wellbeing. Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Finding a Pediatric IBD Specialist A guide to finding a pediatric IBD specialist in the USA, including where to look, what to ask, understanding referrals and insurance, and finding the right medical team for your child. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Healthcare USA IBD appointments, tests and monitoring Understand what to expect from IBD appointments, medical tests, and ongoing monitoring in the USA, including how to prepare, track results, and coordinate your child’s care. When your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, regular appointments and medical tests help their healthcare team understand how the condition is progressing and whether treatment is working. Even when your child feels well, monitoring remains important because inflammation can sometimes continue without obvious symptoms. In the USA, children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are usually monitored by a pediatric gastroenterologist, who develops a follow-up plan based on your child’s condition, medications, symptoms, and individual needs. Understanding what to expect can help your family feel more prepared for appointments and tests. 🩺 What happens at an IBD appointment? Appointments give your child’s healthcare team an opportunity to review symptoms, assess treatment, and identify any changes that may need attention. During an appointment, the doctor may: Ask about abdominal pain, bowel movements, diarrhoea, bleeding, and urgency. Discuss energy levels, appetite, sleep, and general wellbeing. Review medication use, benefits, and possible side effects. Check your child’s weight, height, and growth. Review recent blood tests and stool test results. Decide whether additional investigations or treatment changes are needed. The frequency of appointments varies. Children with newly diagnosed IBD, active disease, or recent medication changes may need more frequent reviews than children whose condition is stable. 🧪 What tests might your child need? There is no single test that tells the whole story of IBD. Doctors use a combination of symptoms, examination findings, laboratory tests, and sometimes imaging or endoscopy to assess your child’s condition. Blood tests Blood tests can help identify inflammation, anaemia, nutritional deficiencies, and potential medication side effects. Depending on your child’s treatment and clinical needs, tests may include: Full blood count to check for anaemia and other changes in blood cells. Inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). Iron studies to assess iron levels and iron stores. Kidney and liver function tests. Tests for nutritional deficiencies when indicated. Some children need blood tests more frequently when starting a new medication or changing doses. Stool tests Stool tests provide useful information about inflammation in the intestines and can help distinguish an IBD flare from certain infections. A commonly used test is faecal calprotectin, which measures a protein associated with intestinal inflammation. Your child’s doctor may use this test to help assess disease activity and monitor treatment response. Stool samples may also be tested for infections, particularly when your child develops new or worsening diarrhoea. Endoscopy and colonoscopy An endoscopy or colonoscopy allows doctors to examine the digestive tract using a flexible camera. During these procedures, small tissue samples may be collected for examination. These investigations can help confirm a diagnosis, assess inflammation, and evaluate how well treatment is working. They are not required at every appointment, and the timing depends on your child’s clinical needs. Imaging Some children need imaging tests, such as an intestinal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or other investigations, to assess inflammation or complications in parts of the digestive tract that cannot be fully evaluated during endoscopy. The type of imaging depends on whether your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and what their doctor needs to investigate. 💊 Why is medication monitoring important? Some IBD medications require regular blood tests or other checks to ensure they are working safely. Your child’s monitoring plan will depend on their medication. For example, certain immunosuppressants and biologic therapies require specific laboratory tests, infection screening, or other safety assessments. Your healthcare team may monitor: Blood cell counts. Liver and kidney function, where relevant. Signs of infection. Medication-specific side effects. Treatment response and ongoing inflammation. Tell your child’s medical team about new symptoms, possible side effects, or concerns about taking medication. Do not stop or change prescribed treatment without discussing it with their healthcare professional, unless you have been given specific instructions for an urgent reaction. 📅 How often will your child need appointments? There is no universal appointment schedule for children with IBD. Follow-up depends on disease activity, treatment, age, growth, and other individual factors. Your child may need: More frequent appointments during diagnosis or a flare. Additional checks after starting or changing medication. Routine follow-up appointments when symptoms are stable. Periodic blood and stool tests between appointments. Repeat endoscopy or imaging when clinically indicated. Ask your child’s gastroenterologist for a written monitoring plan so you know when appointments and tests are due. 💳Understanding appointments and insurance in the USA Healthcare arrangements in the United States can vary depending on your insurance plan, healthcare provider, and location. Before an appointment or investigation, contact your insurance provider and medical centre to confirm: Whether the doctor or facility is in-network. Whether a referral is required. Whether prior authorisation is needed for a test or procedure. What costs, deductibles, or co-payments may apply. Where laboratory tests should be completed. How you will receive results and who will explain them. If your child receives care through a specialist children’s hospital, ask whether the gastroenterology team can coordinate laboratory testing and follow-up appointments. 📝 How can you prepare for an appointment? A little preparation can help you make the most of your time with your child’s healthcare team. Before the appointment: Keep a record of symptoms and changes in bowel habits. Write down questions or concerns. Bring an updated list of medications and supplements. Note any side effects or missed doses. Check whether blood or stool tests need to be completed beforehand. Ask your child whether they have questions they would like answered. During the appointment, ask when you should expect test results, who will contact you, and what to do if you have not heard back. You can also ask for a copy of the treatment and monitoring plan to keep with your family’s medical records. 🚨 What if symptoms worsen between appointments? You do not need to wait for a routine appointment if your child develops new or worsening symptoms. Contact their IBD team if you notice increased diarrhoea, blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, worsening fatigue, reduced appetite, or other changes that concern you. Seek urgent medical assessment for severe abdominal pain, significant bleeding, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or if your child appears seriously unwell. Follow any flare-management instructions provided by your child’s healthcare team. 🔗 Helpful resources Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ — Information about IBD, treatment, and living with the condition. Your child’s pediatric gastroenterology clinic: Ask for a personalised schedule for appointments, blood tests, stool tests, and other investigations. Your health insurance provider: Confirm coverage, referral requirements, and authorisation for appointments and procedures. Regular appointments and monitoring help your child’s healthcare team identify changes, assess treatment effectiveness, and respond when additional support is needed. Knowing what to expect can make the process less stressful and help your family feel more confident managing IBD together. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Understanding IBD Medication Learn how doctors in the USA choose IBD medications for children, including the factors that influence treatment decisions, different medication options, and how your child’s individual needs guide their care. Read More Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Understanding your child’s IBD care team Learn about the healthcare professionals involved in your child’s IBD care in the USA, what each person does, and how they work together to support your child’s health and wellbeing. Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Finding a Pediatric IBD Specialist A guide to finding a pediatric IBD specialist in the USA, including where to look, what to ask, understanding referrals and insurance, and finding the right medical team for your child. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Healthcare USA Understanding your child’s IBD care team Learn about the healthcare professionals involved in your child’s IBD care in the USA, what each person does, and how they work together to support your child’s health and wellbeing. When your child is diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, you may find yourself meeting several different healthcare professionals. Each person plays a role in helping your child manage their inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), monitor their health, and maintain their quality of life. In the USA, children with IBD may receive care through a pediatric gastroenterology department, a dedicated IBD clinic, or a multidisciplinary team at a children’s hospital. Understanding who does what can help you feel more confident navigating appointments, treatments, and flares. 👩⚕️ The pediatric gastroenterologist The pediatric gastroenterologist is usually the lead specialist responsible for your child’s IBD care. These doctors specialise in digestive conditions affecting children and teenagers. They help with: Diagnosing Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Developing and adjusting treatment plans. Monitoring inflammation and disease activity. Ordering investigations, including blood tests, stool tests, endoscopies, and imaging. Managing flares and medication side effects. Monitoring growth, development, and nutritional health. Some gastroenterologists have additional expertise in pediatric IBD and work within specialist IBD programs. 💊 The IBD nurse or nurse practitioner IBD nurses and nurse practitioners can be an important point of contact for families. Their responsibilities vary between hospitals and clinics, but they often help coordinate care and answer questions between appointments. They may help with: Explaining medications and treatment plans. Coordinating blood tests and monitoring. Providing advice about symptoms and possible flares. Arranging appointments and communicating with the medical team. Supporting families with practical questions about living with IBD. Ask your child’s clinic who you should contact if symptoms change or you have questions between appointments. 🥗 The registered dietitian Nutrition is an important part of caring for a growing child with IBD. A registered dietitian can help your family understand how food, nutrition, and growth relate to your child’s condition. They may help with: Assessing nutritional needs and monitoring growth. Identifying nutritional deficiencies. Supporting adequate calorie, protein, vitamin, and mineral intake. Managing dietary challenges during flares. Discussing specialised nutritional treatments when appropriate. Helping your child maintain a balanced diet without unnecessary food restrictions. There is no single diet that works for every child with IBD. Dietary changes should be discussed with your child’s healthcare team, particularly during a flare or when growth is affected. 🧠 The psychologist or mental health professional Living with IBD can be emotionally challenging for children and their families. Worry about symptoms, hospital visits, medication, school absences, and feeling different from friends can affect a child’s wellbeing. A psychologist or other qualified mental health professional can help your child develop strategies to manage: Anxiety about symptoms, tests, and procedures. Stress related to school and friendships. Worries about bathroom access or having an accident. Frustration about living with a long-term condition. The emotional impact of diagnosis, treatment, and flares. Psychological support does not mean that symptoms are all in your child’s head. It helps children cope with the emotional challenges of IBD alongside their medical treatment. 🏥 Other healthcare professionals Depending on your child’s needs, their care team may include other specialists. Pediatric surgeon A surgeon may become involved if your child needs an operation or develops a complication that requires surgical assessment. Pharmacist A pharmacist can help explain how medications should be taken, discuss potential interactions, and answer questions about safe medication use. Primary care provider Your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider helps manage general health needs, routine vaccinations, infections, and other childhood health concerns. They can also communicate with the gastroenterology team. Social worker A hospital social worker may help families navigate practical challenges, including access to support services, financial assistance, insurance concerns, and the impact of treatment on family life. Child life specialist Some children’s hospitals have child life specialists who help children understand medical procedures and cope with hospital experiences through age-appropriate explanations, preparation, and play. Not every child will need all these professionals. The team will depend on your child’s condition, treatment, and individual circumstances. 🤝How does an IBD care team work in the USA? In the United States, the way your child’s care is organised can vary between hospitals, clinics, and insurance arrangements. Some children attend a dedicated pediatric IBD clinic where several professionals work together. Others see their gastroenterologist separately and receive referrals to additional services when needed. Your child may also receive care from local providers while attending a specialist centre for more complex treatment. It is helpful to understand: Who coordinates your child’s overall IBD care. Which healthcare professional to contact with urgent concerns. How to access advice outside regular clinic hours. Who organises medication prescriptions and monitoring tests. Whether referrals are needed for dietitians, psychologists, or other specialists. How your insurance covers appointments and additional services. 📋 How can you work effectively with your child’s care team? As a parent, you play an important role in helping your child receive coordinated care. You know your child’s usual behaviour, symptoms, and daily challenges, and sharing these observations can help the team understand how IBD affects their life. Here are some practical ways to stay organised: Keep a symptom record: Note changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, fatigue, appetite, and other symptoms. Bring questions to appointments: Write down concerns about medications, test results, school, nutrition, or emotional wellbeing. Keep medication information updated: Maintain a list of medications, doses, allergies, and any side effects. Understand the monitoring plan: Ask which blood tests, stool tests, and other investigations your child needs and how often. Know who to contact: Make sure you have the clinic’s contact details and instructions for urgent concerns. Share information between providers: Ensure your child’s primary care provider and other specialists know about important treatment changes. As your child grows older, encourage them to ask questions and take part in discussions about their care. Gradually building these skills can help them become more confident managing IBD as teenagers and young adults. ❤️ What if you feel your child needs more support? If your child is struggling with symptoms, treatment, nutrition, school, or emotional wellbeing, tell their gastroenterology team. You do not need to wait until the next routine appointment if you have concerns. You can ask whether additional support is available through an IBD nurse, dietitian, psychologist, social worker, or another specialist. If you feel your concerns are not being addressed, you can ask for clarification, request a care planning discussion, or seek a second medical opinion. 🔗 Helpful resources Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ — Education and support for people living with IBD and their families. Your child’s pediatric gastroenterology clinic: Ask for information about the professionals involved in your child’s care and how to contact them. Your health insurance provider: Check coverage and referral requirements for additional healthcare professionals. Your child’s IBD care team is there to support more than just their digestive symptoms. By working together, these professionals can help address your child’s medical, nutritional, emotional, and everyday needs so your family feels better equipped to navigate life with IBD. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Finding a Pediatric IBD Specialist A guide to finding a pediatric IBD specialist in the USA, including where to look, what to ask, understanding referrals and insurance, and finding the right medical team for your child. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More

Healthcare USA Finding a Pediatric IBD Specialist A guide to finding a pediatric IBD specialist in the USA, including where to look, what to ask, understanding referrals and insurance, and finding the right medical team for your child. Finding the right medical team is an important step when your child is diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. In the United States, children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often cared for by a pediatric gastroenterologist , a doctor who specialises in digestive conditions in children and teenagers. A specialist with experience in pediatric IBD can help manage symptoms, monitor your child’s growth, develop a treatment plan, and support your family through flares and remission. 🩺 What is a pediatric gastroenterologist? A pediatric gastroenterologist is a doctor who specialises in conditions affecting the digestive system in babies, children, and teenagers. Some have additional expertise in inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. A pediatric IBD specialist can help with: Diagnosing and monitoring Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Developing and adjusting medication and treatment plans. Monitoring inflammation, blood tests, nutrition, and growth. Managing flares and treatment side effects. Coordinating care with dietitians, nurses, psychologists, and other specialists. Supporting your child as they transition to adult healthcare. 🏥 Where can you find a pediatric IBD specialist? There are several ways to find a specialist who treats children with IBD in the USA. Children’s hospitals and specialist centres Many large children's hospitals have pediatric gastroenterology departments with dedicated IBD programs. These centres may offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together doctors, nurses, dietitians, and mental health professionals. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is a national organisation that provides information, education, and support for people living with IBD. Its website can help families find resources and connect with the IBD community. Visit: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ Your child’s primary care provider Your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider can refer you to a pediatric gastroenterologist and help identify specialists who accept your insurance. Your health insurance provider If your child has health insurance, check the insurer’s provider directory for pediatric gastroenterologists who treat Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Confirm that the specialist is in-network and whether a referral is required. ✅ What should you look for in a specialist? Not every pediatric gastroenterologist has the same level of experience with IBD. When choosing a specialist, consider asking: Does the doctor regularly treat children with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis? Is there a dedicated pediatric IBD team? How are flares and urgent symptoms managed? What happens if we need advice outside regular appointment hours? Are dietitians, psychologists, and IBD nurses available? How are medications, blood tests, and treatment side effects monitored? How does the team support children as they grow into teenagers and young adults? It is also important to consider how comfortable your child feels with the doctor and whether your family feels listened to and involved in treatment decisions. 💳 Understanding referrals and insurance Access to pediatric IBD specialists can vary depending on your location, health insurance, and healthcare arrangements. Some insurance plans allow families to book directly with a specialist, while others require a referral from a primary care provider. You may also need prior authorisation for certain appointments, tests, or treatments. Before booking, contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage, out-of-pocket costs, referral requirements, and whether the specialist is in-network. If you live a long way from a specialist centre, ask whether telehealth appointments are available for suitable follow-up visits. Your child may still need in-person appointments for examinations, procedures, or specific tests. 📍 What if you cannot find a specialist nearby? Pediatric IBD expertise may be limited in some areas, particularly in rural communities. If you cannot find a suitable specialist nearby, ask your child’s primary care provider about referrals to a larger children’s hospital or an academic medical centre. Some families receive care through a combination of local healthcare providers and a specialist IBD team. Ask how communication between providers will be coordinated and who to contact if your child’s symptoms worsen. 🚨 When should you seek urgent medical advice? If your child has IBD and develops severe abdominal pain, significant bleeding, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or a high fever, contact their medical team promptly. Seek emergency care if symptoms are severe or your child appears seriously unwell. Do not wait for a routine specialist appointment if you are concerned about a possible flare or complication. 🔗 Helpful resources Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ — Information, education, and family support. Children’s hospitals: Search for pediatric gastroenterology or pediatric IBD programs at major children's hospitals in your state. Your health insurance provider: Confirm in-network specialists, referrals, and coverage before booking. Finding a pediatric IBD specialist who understands your child’s needs can help your family feel more confident navigating diagnosis, treatment, and life with IBD. You do not have to manage everything alone; your child’s healthcare team can help guide you through the next steps. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Understanding your child’s IBD care team Learn about the healthcare professionals involved in your child’s IBD care in the USA, what each person does, and how they work together to support your child’s health and wellbeing. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More

Support Australia Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can affect much more than a child’s physical health. Hospital visits, unpredictable symptoms, school absences and worries about the future can all take an emotional toll. Some children may feel anxious about having a flare at school, embarrassed about needing the toilet urgently or frustrated that they cannot always do the same things as their friends. Others may struggle with medication, medical procedures or the uncertainty of living with a long-term condition. Parents and siblings can also experience stress, worry and exhaustion. Emotional support is an important part of caring for a child with IBD. There are services available in Australia to help children, teenagers and families manage these challenges. 🧠 How can IBD affect a child’s emotional wellbeing? Every child responds differently to living with IBD. Some adjust well, while others may need extra support at different stages of their journey. Your child might experience: Anxiety and worry: about symptoms, medical tests, hospital admissions or having a flare. Embarrassment: about toilet urgency, accidents, medication or explaining their condition to friends. Feeling different: particularly when IBD affects school attendance, sport, sleepovers or social activities. Frustration and sadness: about missing out on activities or not feeling well. Stress around food: especially when symptoms affect eating or when they have dietary restrictions. Worries about the future: including friendships, independence, puberty and managing their condition as they grow older. These feelings do not necessarily mean your child has a mental health condition. However, if worries persist, interfere with daily life or become difficult to manage, professional support may help. 🩺 Start with your child’s IBD team Your child’s paediatric gastroenterologist and IBD nurses can be a useful starting point if you are concerned about their emotional wellbeing. Ask whether the hospital has access to a paediatric psychologist, social worker or other mental health professional. Some children's hospitals have teams that work with children who have chronic illnesses and understand the emotional challenges associated with ongoing treatment. These professionals may help children develop coping strategies, manage anxiety around procedures, adjust to a diagnosis and communicate their needs at school. If your hospital does not offer this service, the team may be able to recommend community-based support. 💬 Finding a psychologist or counsellor A psychologist or counsellor can help your child understand their feelings and develop practical ways to manage stress. Depending on your child's needs, support may focus on: Managing anxiety and worries about symptoms. Building confidence and self-esteem. Coping with medical procedures and hospital visits. Navigating friendships and school. Adjusting to a new diagnosis or changes in health. Developing strategies for difficult emotions. When choosing a professional, look for someone who works with children or teenagers and has experience with chronic illness, medical anxiety or health-related concerns. You can ask your GP, paediatrician or IBD team for recommendations. It may also help to ask whether the psychologist offers appointments for parents or family sessions. 💰 Can Medicare help with psychology costs? Medicare may help cover some psychological treatment costs for eligible patients. Under the Australian Government’s Better Access initiative, eligible people may receive Medicare benefits for up to 10 individual and 10 group psychological treatment services per calendar year. Eligibility requirements apply, including assessment for a clinically diagnosed mental health condition and an appropriate referral or treatment plan. To explore this option: Make an appointment with your GP to discuss your child’s emotional wellbeing. Ask whether a mental health assessment and treatment plan are appropriate. Ask about referral options for a psychologist or another eligible mental health professional. Check the provider’s fees and Medicare rebate before booking. Medicare rebates may not cover the full appointment cost, so ask about any gap fee. Some providers bulk bill eligible patients, while others charge privately. You can find more information through Medicare Mental Health . 🏡 Free mental health support for children and families You do not always need a private psychologist or a GP referral to access support. Depending on your child's age, needs and location, free services may be available. Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs Kids Hubs provide support for children aged 0–12 experiencing mild to moderate emotional, developmental, relationship or behavioural challenges. Services may include assessment, therapy, parenting support and access to professionals such as psychologists and social workers. Availability and services vary by location. Visit Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs to find out more. Medicare Mental Health If you are unsure where to start, Medicare Mental Health can help connect families with suitable local services. You can call 1800 595 212 for information and guidance. The service is free, and you do not need a GP referral to contact it. Visit Medicare Mental Health for details. 📱 Support for teenagers Teenagers may prefer speaking with someone outside their family, particularly if they feel embarrassed, overwhelmed or unsure how to explain what they are experiencing. Kids Helpline offers free, private and confidential counselling for young people aged 5–25 across Australia, by phone and online, 24 hours a day. Phone: 1800 55 1800 Website: Kids Helpline Teenagers can contact the service about anxiety, friendships, school, family relationships or anything else that is worrying them. They do not need to be experiencing a crisis to reach out. 👨👩👧 Support for parents and carers Parents can experience their own emotional challenges while caring for a child with IBD. You may be managing appointments, worrying about your child’s health, balancing work and family responsibilities or trying to support your child through difficult feelings. Getting support for yourself is not selfish. It can help you feel less alone and better equipped to support your family. Consider: Speaking with your GP about your own mental health. Asking your child’s hospital whether a social worker or family support service is available. Seeking counselling if stress or worry is affecting your everyday life. Talking with trusted friends or family members. Connecting with other parents who understand the realities of childhood IBD. Crohn’s & Colitis Australia may also be able to direct you towards relevant information and support opportunities. Visit Crohn’s & Colitis Australia . 🏫 Working with your child’s school School can be a significant source of stress for children with IBD, particularly when they are worried about toilet access, falling behind on schoolwork or explaining their condition to classmates. If your child is struggling emotionally at school, consider speaking with their teacher, school counsellor, wellbeing coordinator or learning support team. Practical adjustments may include: Allowing immediate toilet access without needing to explain symptoms publicly. Providing flexibility around deadlines and absences. Identifying a trusted staff member your child can approach. Supporting a gradual return after a flare or hospital admission. Helping your child manage questions from classmates in a way that respects their privacy. You can also use our IBD School Support Plan to help explain your child’s needs and discuss suitable adjustments with the school. IBD School Support Plan for Parents .pdf Download PDF • 328KB 💙 How can you support your child at home? You do not need to have all the answers to help your child feel supported. Small, consistent actions can make a difference. Listen without rushing to fix things. Give your child space to explain what is worrying them, even if you cannot immediately change the situation. Acknowledge their feelings. Let them know that it is understandable to feel frustrated, anxious or upset about living with IBD. Keep communication open. Encourage questions about symptoms, treatment, school and friendships. Use age-appropriate language and answer honestly. Protect their sense of normality. Whenever possible, make room for hobbies, friendships, sport and activities that help them feel like themselves beyond their diagnosis. Involve them in decisions. As they grow, give them opportunities to express preferences about appointments, school support and how they explain IBD to others. Notice when extra help may be needed. If your child withdraws from friends, becomes persistently anxious or sad, struggles to sleep, or finds everyday activities increasingly difficult, speak with their GP or IBD team. 🌱 When should you seek extra help? Consider professional support if your child’s worries or emotions are persistent, getting worse or interfering with school, friendships, sleep or family life. Seek urgent help if you are concerned that your child may hurt themselves or cannot stay safe. In an emergency in Australia, call 000 . Kids Helpline is also available on 1800 55 1800 at any time for young people who need someone to talk to. You do not need to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for help. 💙 Your family deserves support, too IBD affects the whole family, not just the child who has been diagnosed. Emotional support can help children develop coping skills, build confidence and feel less alone, while giving parents practical ways to manage the challenges of caring for a child with a chronic condition. Whether you start with your child’s IBD team, a GP, a psychologist or a free support service, reaching out is a positive step. 🔗 Where to find more information Crohn’s & Colitis Australia — information and support for people with IBD and their families. Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs — free mental health and wellbeing support for children aged 0–12 and their families. Medicare Mental Health — help finding mental health services, including free and low-cost options. Kids Helpline — free, confidential counselling for young people aged 5–25. healthdirect: Mental health treatment plans — information about accessing Medicare-subsidised psychological care. This article provides general information for Australian families and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. Service availability, costs and eligibility vary. Contact the relevant provider to confirm current arrangements. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Support Australia Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can bring extra expenses that families may not always expect. Between specialist appointments, medications, travel to hospital, time away from work and everyday care, the financial pressure can add up. The good news is that there are several forms of financial assistance and practical support available to Australian families. Eligibility depends on your circumstances, your child’s care needs and the type of expense involved. 💰 What financial support is available? There is no single payment specifically for every family affected by paediatric IBD. However, you may be eligible for assistance through government payments, Medicare, subsidised medicines, travel schemes or hospital support services. It is worth checking several options rather than assuming you will not qualify. 👨👩👧 Carer Allowance Carer Allowance is a fortnightly payment from Services Australia for people who provide daily care and attention to someone with a disability or medical condition. Parents of children with IBD may wish to investigate eligibility, particularly if their child needs significant ongoing care and assistance with everyday activities. Eligibility is not automatic for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Services Australia assesses the care required, the relevant medical criteria, income and residency requirements. Find out more or check the eligibility requirements through Services Australia – Carer Allowance . 🏡 Carer Payment Carer Payment provides income support to eligible people who provide constant care to someone with a disability or medical condition. It may be relevant if caring responsibilities significantly limit your ability to work. However, strict eligibility rules apply, including requirements relating to the level of care provided and income and assets. Carer Payment and Carer Allowance can sometimes be received together, depending on your circumstances. Read more at Services Australia – Carer Payment . 🧾 Family Tax Benefit and other payments Depending on your family’s circumstances, you may qualify for other government assistance, including: Family Tax Benefit: help with the cost of raising children. Child Care Subsidy: assistance with eligible child care costs. Health Care Card: access to certain concessions, depending on eligibility. Carer Supplement and Child Disability Assistance Payment: additional payments for eligible recipients of certain carer payments. These payments have different eligibility rules. Having a child with IBD does not automatically qualify your family, so check your circumstances with Services Australia. Visit Services Australia to explore payments and concessions. 💊 Help with medication costs Prescription medicines can be an ongoing expense for children with IBD. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidises many medicines, reducing the amount eligible patients pay. If your child takes several PBS medicines, the PBS Safety Net may help reduce your family’s prescription costs once you reach the annual threshold. For 2026, the PBS Safety Net thresholds are: General patients: $1,748.20 in eligible medicine costs. Concession card holders: $277.20 in eligible medicine costs. Eligible family members can combine their PBS medicine spending. Keep track of prescriptions and ask your pharmacist how to record your family’s spending. Once you reach the applicable threshold, you may be entitled to cheaper medicines for the rest of the calendar year. Some specialist treatments have additional eligibility requirements, and not every medicine is subsidised. Learn more at Services Australia – PBS Safety Net . 🩺 Help with specialist appointments and medical costs Frequent specialist appointments, tests and other out-of-hospital medical services can create significant out-of-pocket expenses. The Medicare Safety Nets may help eligible families receive higher Medicare benefits once their annual gap or out-of-pocket expenses reach a threshold. For 2026, the Extended Medicare Safety Net threshold is: $861.20 for eligible concession card holders and families receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A. $2,699.10 for other eligible individuals and families. The amount you receive back depends on the service and applicable benefit limits. Not every healthcare expense counts towards the thresholds. Families should also register their eligible family members with Medicare for the relevant family safety-net arrangements. Find out more at Services Australia – Medicare Safety Nets . 🚗 Financial assistance for travel to hospital Some children need to travel long distances to see a paediatric gastroenterologist or attend a specialist hospital. Travel, accommodation, meals and parking can become a substantial expense. Every Australian state and territory has a patient travel assistance scheme that may help eligible families with some travel and accommodation costs when specialist treatment is not available locally. Examples include: NSW: Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS). Queensland: Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS). Victoria: Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme (VPTAS). South Australia: Patient Assistance Transport Scheme (PATS). The schemes have different distance requirements, payment arrangements and eligibility criteria. Some require approval or an application before travel, so check the rules before making arrangements. You can find an overview of the schemes through healthdirect – Financial support during long-term illness . 🏥 Ask your hospital about financial support If your child attends a public children’s hospital, ask whether a social worker or hospital support service can help you explore financial assistance. Hospital social workers may be able to explain relevant government payments, travel assistance, accommodation options and community organisations that support families during treatment. You can ask for help even if you are unsure whether you qualify for a particular payment. 🤝 Support from charities and community organisations Some charities and community organisations provide practical support, information or assistance to families managing a child’s chronic illness. Crohn’s & Colitis Australia offers information and support for people living with IBD and their families. You can contact the organisation to ask about current programs, family support and resources. Visit Crohn’s & Colitis Australia to explore the support available. You can also ask your hospital team whether there are local family support services or assistance programs relevant to your circumstances. 📋 Practical ways to manage extra expenses A few simple steps can help you understand your costs and identify support you may be eligible for. Keep receipts and records: Track prescriptions, medical appointments, travel and accommodation expenses. Check eligibility early: Some payments and travel schemes have specific requirements or application deadlines. Ask about costs before appointments: Find out whether there will be out-of-pocket fees and whether Medicare rebates apply. Keep medical documents together: Reports and letters from your child’s specialist may be needed for applications. Speak up if money is becoming difficult: Tell your child’s treating team if costs are affecting your ability to attend appointments or obtain treatment. 💙 You don’t have to work it all out alone Managing a child’s IBD can be demanding, and financial pressure can add another layer of stress. You may not qualify for every payment, but it is worth checking the available options and asking for help when you need it. Your child’s hospital team, social worker, pharmacist and relevant government services can help you understand what support may be available to your family. 🔗 Where to find more information Services Australia — government payments, carer support and concession cards. Medicare Safety Nets — help with eligible out-of-hospital medical expenses. PBS Safety Net — assistance with eligible prescription medicine costs. healthdirect — information about financial support and patient travel schemes. This article provides general information for Australian families. Eligibility, payment amounts and program rules can change. Check the relevant organisation’s current requirements before applying. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Mental health and emotional support Explore mental health and emotional support options for Australian children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and their families. Learn how to find psychologists, access Medicare rebates, connect with free counselling services, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing at home and school. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Medications Australia Accessing biologic treatments in Australia Learn how children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can access biologic treatments in Australia. Understand specialist assessments, PBS approval requirements, hospital infusions, at-home injections, treatment costs and ongoing monitoring. When a child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, standard treatments don’t always provide enough relief. If inflammation remains active despite other medicines, a paediatric gastroenterologist may discuss biologic therapy as another treatment option. Biologics are medicines that target specific parts of the immune system involved in inflammation. For some children, they can help control symptoms, reduce inflammation and support longer periods of remission. In Australia, eligible children may be able to access certain biologic treatments through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Understanding how specialist approval works and where treatment is given can help families know what to expect. 💙 What are biologic treatments? Biologics are advanced medicines made using biological processes. They target particular proteins or pathways involved in the inflammation associated with IBD. For children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, treatment options may include: Infliximab: Usually given through an intravenous infusion at a hospital or specialist infusion service. Adalimumab: Usually given as an injection under the skin. Some families may be able to administer it at home after training. These medicines are not suitable for every child. The treating specialist considers the type of IBD, how active the disease is, previous treatments, test results and the child’s overall health. 🩺 When might a child need biologic treatment? A paediatric gastroenterologist may consider biologic therapy when a child has moderate to severe disease, ongoing inflammation or a poor response to other treatments. It may also be considered when a child cannot tolerate certain medicines or has complications that require more targeted treatment. Before recommending a biologic, the specialist will review your child’s medical history, symptoms, blood tests, stool tests and, where appropriate, endoscopy or imaging results. The aim is to choose a treatment that offers the best balance of potential benefits, risks and practical considerations for your child. How can children access biologics through the PBS? The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidises certain biologic medicines for eligible children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Access is subject to specific requirements, which may include the child’s age, disease severity, previous treatments and evidence of active inflammation. For example, the PBS has specific eligibility criteria for infliximab and adalimumab in children with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These requirements differ according to the condition and treatment. The process generally involves the following steps: 1. Assessment by a specialist Your child’s paediatric gastroenterologist assesses whether a biologic is appropriate and which medicine may be suitable. 2. Checking PBS eligibility The specialist checks whether your child meets the current PBS criteria for the proposed treatment. These may include particular disease activity scores, previous treatment trials and relevant test results. 3. Applying for approval Where required, the specialist submits a PBS authority application with the relevant clinical information. Some medicines have specific approval processes, and the treating team can explain what applies to your child. 4. Arranging treatment Once the necessary approvals and arrangements are in place, the hospital or specialist team explains where treatment will be given, how often it is needed and what preparation is required. 5. Monitoring the response The team reviews your child’s symptoms, blood and stool tests, and other assessments as needed. Continued PBS-subsidised treatment may require evidence that the medicine is working and that eligibility criteria remain satisfied. You can check the current requirements through Services Australia’s information about PBS treatments for paediatric Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis . 🏥 What happens during a hospital infusion? Some biologics, including intravenous infliximab, are administered through a drip into a vein. This is commonly arranged through a hospital day unit or specialist infusion service. The exact process varies between hospitals, but a typical appointment may include: Checking your child’s symptoms and general health before treatment. Recording observations such as temperature, pulse and blood pressure. Inserting an intravenous cannula. Administering the medicine over a period of time. Monitoring your child during and after the infusion for possible reactions. Initial treatment often involves a series of doses followed by maintenance infusions at planned intervals. The schedule depends on the medicine, your child’s response and the specialist’s treatment plan. You may be able to stay with your child during the appointment. Ask the hospital what to bring, whether food and drinks are permitted, how long the visit is expected to take and what arrangements are available for school-aged children. 🏡 Can biologic treatment be given at home? Some biologics, such as adalimumab, are administered by injection under the skin rather than through an infusion. Depending on the medicine, your child’s age, PBS eligibility and the arrangements offered by the treating service, injections may be given at home after appropriate training. Your healthcare team can explain how to store the medicine, prepare the injection, dispose of sharps safely and manage missed doses. Not every biologic can be administered at home, and some treatments require hospital or specialist supervision. 💰 How much does biologic treatment cost? The cost depends on the medicine, PBS eligibility, where it is supplied and whether treatment is provided through a public or private service. For eligible patients, PBS subsidies can substantially reduce the cost of certain biologics. However, the arrangements for hospital-administered medicines can differ from those for prescriptions collected at a community pharmacy. Before treatment starts, ask your specialist or hospital team: Is this medicine subsidised through the PBS for my child’s condition? Does the hospital supply the medicine? Will there be any out-of-pocket costs? Are there costs associated with infusions, appointments or private hospital care? What happens if my child does not meet the PBS criteria? If you are concerned about costs, ask the hospital’s social worker or financial counselling service whether support or alternative arrangements may be available. 🩸 What monitoring is needed during treatment? Biologic treatment requires ongoing medical supervision. Before starting, your child’s team may arrange screening for certain infections, review vaccinations and assess other health risks. During treatment, monitoring may include: Blood tests to check for inflammation and possible side effects. Stool tests, including faecal calprotectin, to assess bowel inflammation. Reviews of symptoms, growth and general wellbeing. Further investigations if the treatment is not controlling the disease as expected. The specific tests and frequency depend on the medicine and your child’s circumstances. Contact the treating team if your child develops a fever, signs of a significant infection or other concerning symptoms. Follow the team’s instructions about whether treatment should be delayed when your child is unwell. 💙 What if the first biologic doesn’t work? Children respond differently to biologic medicines. Some improve significantly, while others may have an incomplete response or lose response over time. If treatment isn’t working as expected, the gastroenterologist may review the diagnosis, assess ongoing inflammation and consider whether further tests or a change in treatment are needed. Depending on the circumstances, options may include adjusting the treatment plan or considering another medicine. PBS eligibility requirements apply when changing or recommencing subsidised treatment. It is important not to stop or change your child’s medication without discussing it with their treating team. 📋 Questions to ask your child’s gastroenterologist If biologic treatment has been suggested, consider asking: Why is this medicine being recommended for my child? What benefits and risks should we understand? Does my child meet the current PBS eligibility criteria? How will the medicine be given, and how often? Where will infusions take place? What tests are needed before and during treatment? What should we do if our child becomes unwell? How will we know whether the treatment is working? What are the next steps if it doesn’t work? Writing down your questions before the appointment can help you feel more prepared and ensure you understand the treatment plan. 🌱 Supporting your child through treatment Starting a biologic can feel like a big step for both children and parents. Understanding the process, knowing what to expect at appointments and having a clear plan for monitoring can make the experience less overwhelming. Your child’s IBD team can guide you through treatment options, PBS requirements, infusion arrangements and follow-up care. Don’t hesitate to ask for information in language your child can understand, so they can feel involved in their care as they grow. 🔗 Where to find more information Services Australia: PBS treatment for paediatric Crohn’s disease Services Australia: PBS treatment for ulcerative colitis Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) This article provides general information for Australian families. Treatment options, PBS eligibility and costs can change. Your child’s paediatric gastroenterologist can explain which treatments are suitable and how to access them. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Financial assistance for families Explore financial assistance available to Australian families caring for a child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Learn about carer payments, medication subsidies, Medicare Safety Nets, travel assistance, government benefits and support services that may help reduce the financial burden. Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Medications Australia Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Managing Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis often means regular prescriptions, ongoing medication and sometimes several different treatments. For families, the cost of medicines can add up, especially when a child needs long-term treatment. The good news is that the Australian healthcare system offers several ways to reduce prescription costs. Understanding the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), keeping track of your family’s medicine spending and asking the right questions can help you plan ahead. 💙 What is the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)? The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) is an Australian Government program that subsidises the cost of many prescription medicines. Instead of paying the full price of an eligible medicine, you pay a contribution and the government covers the remaining subsidised amount. Many medicines used to treat IBD may be available through the PBS, but eligibility depends on the specific medicine, the condition being treated and the prescribing requirements. Some medicines have restrictions, such as needing approval from a specialist or meeting particular clinical criteria. Not every medicine is subsidised, and some treatments may have additional costs. You can search for medicines and check current PBS information on the official PBS website . 💰 How much do PBS prescriptions cost? From 1 January 2026 , the maximum patient contribution for most PBS medicines is: Up to $25 per prescription for general patients with a Medicare card. Up to $7.70 per prescription for eligible concession card holders. These are maximum co-payments for eligible PBS medicines, not guaranteed prices for every medicine. The amount you pay may be lower, and additional charges can apply in some circumstances. You may pay more if a medicine is not listed on the PBS, if you choose a brand with an additional brand premium, or if other special charges apply. If your child takes several medicines, ask your pharmacist to explain the cost of each prescription and whether a less expensive equivalent brand is available. 🧾 What is the PBS Safety Net? The PBS Safety Net helps reduce medicine costs when you or your family spend a certain amount on eligible prescriptions during a calendar year. For 2026 , the thresholds are: General patients: $1,748.20 in eligible medicine costs. Concession card holders: $277.20 in eligible medicine costs. Once your family reaches the applicable threshold, general patients can pay the concessional rate of up to $7.70 per PBS prescription for the rest of the calendar year. Eligible concession card holders can receive PBS medicines at no further charge for the remainder of that year. Additional charges, such as some brand premiums, may still apply. An important tip for families: Eligible family members can combine their PBS medicine spending to reach the Safety Net sooner. Ask your pharmacist how to register your family’s spending and keep a record of prescriptions, particularly if you use more than one pharmacy. Find out more through Services Australia’s PBS Safety Net information . 🪪 Can a concession card reduce medication costs? If your family has an eligible concession card, you may pay a lower co-payment for PBS medicines. Eligibility for concession cards depends on your circumstances and the relevant government rules. If you are unsure whether your family qualifies, check with Services Australia or ask a social worker at your child’s hospital for guidance. Even if you do not have a concession card, the PBS Safety Net may help reduce costs if your family spends enough on eligible prescriptions. 🩺 What if your child needs specialist medication? Some IBD treatments, including certain biologic medicines, have specific PBS eligibility and prescribing requirements. These treatments may be provided through a hospital or specialist service rather than collected like a routine prescription from a community pharmacy. Depending on the medicine and where it is supplied, the costs and arrangements can differ. If your child’s gastroenterologist recommends a new treatment, ask: Is this medicine subsidised through the PBS? Does it require special approval or authority? Will it be supplied through the hospital or a community pharmacy? Are there any costs for the medicine, administration or associated appointments? Who should we contact if we have difficulty affording treatment? If a medicine is not covered by the PBS, ask the treating team whether another suitable subsidised option or a hospital supply arrangement is available. Never stop or change your child’s medication because of cost without speaking to their treating team. 📋 What about medicines that are not covered by the PBS? Some medicines are not subsidised for a particular condition, may be prescribed outside PBS restrictions, or may not be listed on the PBS at all. In these situations, you may need to pay more of the cost yourself. Before filling an expensive prescription, ask your pharmacist or specialist to confirm the expected price and whether any subsidy or alternative is available. You can also ask the hospital’s social worker or patient support team whether there are local assistance programs that may be relevant to your family. 💡 Practical ways to manage medication costs A few simple habits can make it easier to manage ongoing prescriptions: Keep a medication list: Record each medicine, its dose, how often it is taken and when a repeat prescription is needed. Track your spending: Keep receipts or ask your pharmacy to help record eligible PBS spending towards your family’s Safety Net. Use one pharmacy where practical: This can make it easier to keep track of prescriptions and discuss costs, although your family can still ask about combining eligible spending across pharmacies. Ask about generic brands: Where appropriate and permitted, a less expensive equivalent brand may be available. Check repeats before you run out: Plan ahead for appointments, school holidays and travel so you have time to obtain prescriptions. Ask questions early: If a medicine becomes difficult to afford, speak with your pharmacist or IBD team before your supply runs low. 💙 Supporting your child’s treatment Medication is often an important part of managing IBD, and families should not have to navigate prescription costs without support. Knowing what is subsidised, understanding the PBS Safety Net and asking your child’s treating team about costs can help you make informed decisions. If you are worried about affording your child’s medication, let their paediatric gastroenterology team know. They can explain the available options and help you work out the next steps. 🔗 Where to find more information Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) — search for medicines and check subsidy information. Services Australia: PBS Safety Net thresholds — learn about the annual thresholds and how to combine eligible family spending. Australian Government: PBS co-payments — check current prescription contribution rates. This article provides general information for Australian families. Prescription costs, PBS listings and eligibility rules can change. Confirm current details with your pharmacist, specialist or the relevant government service. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Medication safety and monitoring Learn how to keep your child safe while taking medication for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Discover why regular blood tests matter, how to reduce infection risks, which vaccination precautions to know, why sun protection is important, and which side effects to watch for. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More

Medications Australia Medication safety and monitoring Medicines can play an important role in managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Some help reduce inflammation, while others suppress parts of the immune system to keep the disease under control. Alongside helping your child feel better, it’s important to understand how their medication is monitored, which side effects to watch for and how to reduce the risk of infections. Every medicine is different, so your child’s paediatric gastroenterology team should explain the specific precautions and monitoring required for their treatment. 🩸 Why does my child need regular blood tests? Some IBD medicines can affect the liver, blood cells, kidneys or other parts of the body. Regular blood tests help the treating team check that the medicine is working safely and identify potential problems before symptoms develop. Depending on your child’s medication, blood tests may check: Full blood count: checks red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Liver function: checks for signs of liver irritation or damage. Kidney function: monitors kidney health when relevant to the medication. Inflammation markers: such as CRP, which can help assess inflammation. Iron levels and other nutritional markers: to monitor deficiencies that can occur with IBD. Some medicines require more frequent blood tests when treatment begins or when the dose changes. Testing may become less frequent once treatment is stable, depending on the medicine and your child’s results. Parent tip: Keep a record of your child’s blood tests and upcoming appointments. Ask the IBD team who will contact you about abnormal results and what to do if a scheduled test is missed. 🦠 Infection precautions: what should parents know? Some IBD medicines, including immunomodulators, biologic medicines and corticosteroids, can weaken or alter the immune system. This may make certain infections more likely or increase the risk of complications from an infection. Practical precautions include: Encourage regular handwashing, particularly before eating and after using the toilet. Avoid close contact with people who have a known contagious illness where practical. Keep your child’s vaccinations up to date, following advice from their treating team. Tell healthcare professionals about your child’s IBD medicines before they prescribe new medication or treat an infection. Contact your child’s IBD team if they develop a fever, feel unusually unwell or have symptoms of a significant infection. Your child may not need to avoid everyday activities or every person with a cold. The level of precaution depends on their treatment, dose, health and the type of infection. When to seek urgent help: Follow the fever and illness instructions provided by your child’s treating team. If your child is seriously unwell, has difficulty breathing, becomes confused or is difficult to wake, seek emergency medical care. 💉 Vaccinations: which ones are important? Vaccination helps protect children against preventable infections. However, some IBD medicines affect which vaccines your child can safely receive. Your child’s gastroenterologist or GP can review their vaccination history and recommend an appropriate schedule. Inactivated vaccines: These do not contain live organisms and are generally safe for children taking immunosuppressive medication, although the immune response may be reduced. Live vaccines: These may not be suitable while a child is taking certain immunosuppressive medicines. Examples include some formulations of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), chickenpox and nasal influenza vaccines. Vaccine recommendations depend on the specific vaccine and medication. Do not start, stop or delay IBD treatment to receive a vaccine without specialist advice. ☀️ Sun protection: why does it matter? Some IBD medicines can increase sensitivity to sunlight or raise the risk of certain skin cancers. This is particularly important for children taking azathioprine or mercaptopurine , which are associated with an increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancers. Help your child build sun-safe habits: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50 or SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply as directed. Wear a broad-brimmed hat, protective clothing and sunglasses. Seek shade, particularly when the UV index is high. Avoid tanning beds and deliberate tanning. Check your child’s skin for new or changing spots and sores that do not heal. Discuss any concerning skin changes with their doctor. Sun protection is important for all children in Australia, but it deserves particular attention when taking medicines that increase skin cancer risk. ⚠️ Monitoring for side effects Every medication has potential side effects. Some are mild, while others need prompt medical attention. Keep an eye out for changes in how your child feels, and let their treating team know about new or persistent symptoms. Depending on the medication, possible warning signs may include: Fever, chills or recurrent infections. Unusual bruising or bleeding. Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or severe abdominal pain. A persistent cough or shortness of breath. A new rash or an allergic reaction. Severe or worsening abdominal pain, vomiting or a significant change in bowel symptoms. These symptoms do not automatically mean the medication is causing a problem, but they may need assessment. Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, collapse or other signs of a severe allergic reaction. Never stop or change your child’s medication dose without medical advice unless you have been given specific instructions for an urgent situation. 📋 What should you ask your child’s IBD team? It can be difficult to remember everything during appointments. Consider keeping these questions in your phone or taking them to your next visit: Which blood tests does my child need, and how often? Who reviews the results, and how will we be contacted? What should we do if my child develops a fever? Are there any vaccines my child should avoid or receive before treatment? Does this medicine increase sun sensitivity or skin cancer risk? Which side effects need urgent medical attention? Are there any medicines, supplements or over-the-counter products my child should avoid? What should we do if a dose is missed or my child vomits after taking medication? Y ou can also ask for a written medication plan that explains when to take each medicine, what monitoring is required and who to contact if you are concerned. 💙 Helping your child stay safe and confident Medication monitoring can feel like another thing to manage when your child already has appointments, school and everyday life to navigate. But regular checks and knowing what to look out for can help you and your child feel more confident about treatment. As your child gets older, involve them in age-appropriate ways. They can learn the names of their medicines, understand why blood tests are needed and know when to tell an adult they feel unwell. The goal is not to make your child afraid of medication. It is to help them understand their treatment and build safe habits as they grow. 🔗 Where to find more information Cancer Council Australia — sun protection and skin cancer prevention information. This article provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Monitoring requirements, infection precautions and vaccine recommendations vary according to the medicine and your child’s circumstances. Always follow the advice of your child’s paediatric gastroenterology team. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Medication costs and prescriptions Understand medication costs for children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in Australia. Learn about PBS prescription prices, concession cards, the PBS Safety Net, specialist treatments and practical ways to manage ongoing medication expenses. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More

Helpful Extras Australia The National Public Toilet Map: finding toilets across Australia Discover how the free National Public Toilet Map can help families affected by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis find public toilets across Australia. Learn how to search nearby facilities, check opening hours and accessibility, plan trips, and find toilets that require an MLAK key. When your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, knowing where the nearest toilet is can make everyday outings a little less stressful. Bowel urgency can happen suddenly, and finding a toilet quickly isn’t always easy, especially when you’re somewhere unfamiliar. The National Public Toilet Map is a free Australian website and app that helps families find public toilet facilities, check opening hours and plan ahead when travelling. It can be a useful tool for families living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 📍 What is the National Public Toilet Map? The National Public Toilet Map is an Australian resource that helps you locate public toilets across the country. It provides information about toilet locations, opening hours, accessibility and available facilities. You can search for toilets near your current location or enter a town, suburb or destination before you leave home. For families affected by IBD, this can help you plan trips to shopping centres, parks, sporting events, school excursions and holiday destinations with greater confidence. 💙 How can it help children with IBD? When your child needs to use the toilet urgently, knowing where to go can make a big difference. The map can help you: Find nearby toilets when you’re out and about. Check opening hours so you can plan around facilities that are available when you need them. Plan road trips and holidays by checking toilet locations along your route. Check accessibility information to find facilities that better meet your family’s needs. Look for MLAK access to identify certain locked toilets that require a Master Locksmiths Access Key. Check available amenities , such as showers, baby-change facilities and other features listed for individual locations. The map is also useful for teenagers who are becoming more independent and want to feel confident going out with friends or travelling to new places. 📱 How do you use the National Public Toilet Map? Using the map is simple, and you can access it online or through the mobile app. 1. Open the map Visit the National Public Toilet Map website or download the app to your phone. 2. Search for a location Enter your current location, suburb, town or the place you plan to visit. You can also use your current location to find nearby facilities. 3. Check the toilet details Select a toilet on the map to view the available information, including its location, opening hours, accessibility features and whether an MLAK key is required. 4. Adjust your preferences Use the map’s preferences to help find facilities with the features you need. 5. Plan ahead Before leaving home, check a few suitable toilet locations along your route. Having a backup option can be helpful if a facility is closed or unavailable. 🗺️ Can you use it when travelling? Yes! The map can be especially helpful when travelling with a child who has IBD. Before a long car trip, family holiday or day out, search for toilets near planned stops and destinations. You can also use the map to help identify facilities along your journey. Consider saving useful locations or keeping the map accessible on your phone, so you don’t have to start searching from scratch when your child needs a toilet. Remember that opening hours and facility details can change, so check the information before relying on a particular location. 🔑 What about the MLAK key? Some public toilets are locked and require an MLAK key for access. The National Public Toilet Map can help you identify facilities where this key may be needed. If your child experiences bowel urgency, an MLAK key may provide access to additional toilet facilities in some locations. To learn more about eligibility, the application process and costs, read our guide to the MLAK key . 💙 Helping your family feel more prepared Living with IBD can mean thinking about toilets more often than other families need to. Having a practical tool to find facilities can help reduce some of the uncertainty and make it easier to enjoy everyday activities. You don’t need to plan every minute of an outing. Simply knowing where a few toilets are located can help your child feel more comfortable and give the whole family greater peace of mind. 🔗 Find the National Public Toilet Map Visit the National Public Toilet Map You can also find information about the map and its mobile app through Continence Health Australia . Please note: The map provides information to help you plan, but facility details may not always be up to date. Check opening hours and access requirements where possible. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Helpful Extras Australia Camp Fearless: youth camps for young people with IBD Discover Camp Fearless, a youth camp run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia for teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Find out what to expect, how young people can connect with others who understand life with IBD, and where to find information about upcoming camps. Growing up with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can sometimes feel isolating. Between medical appointments, medications, symptoms and time away from school, it can be hard for teenagers to feel like their friends understand what they’re going through. Camp Fearless , run by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia (CCA), gives young people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) the opportunity to connect with others who understand their experiences, make friends and have fun in a supportive environment. 💙 What is Camp Fearless? Camp Fearless is a multi-day camp designed for teenagers aged 12–17 years who live with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The camp brings together young people from across Australia for a few days of activities, friendship, learning and relaxation. It provides an opportunity to meet other teenagers who understand the challenges of living with IBD, without having to explain every symptom or worry. The focus is on helping young people build confidence, develop independence and create friendships with people who share similar experiences. 🎯 What happens at Camp Fearless? Camp Fearless combines fun activities with opportunities to learn and connect. Depending on the program, campers can enjoy: Outdoor activities and group experiences Meeting other teenagers living with IBD Building friendships and social connections Learning practical strategies for managing IBD Developing confidence and independence Spending time in an environment where they feel understood For many young people, one of the most valuable parts of camp is realising they are not alone. Meeting others who understand the realities of IBD can help reduce feelings of isolation and make it easier to talk openly about their experiences. 🩺 Is medical support available? Camp Fearless is designed with the needs of young people living with IBD in mind. Previous national camps have included support from the CCA team, trained volunteers, an IBD nurse and a paediatric gastroenterologist on call. Families should check the arrangements for each camp, including medication management, dietary requirements, accessibility and any individual medical needs, before registering. 👨👩👧 Information for parents and carers Sending your child away to camp can feel like a big step, particularly if they have ongoing symptoms or need regular medication. Before attending, you can contact the camp organisers to discuss your child’s needs, including: Medication schedules and storage Toilet access and bowel urgency Dietary requirements and food intolerances Fatigue, pain or other symptoms What happens if your child becomes unwell Travel arrangements and financial assistance Sharing this information ahead of time can help the organisers understand your child’s needs and support them to participate as comfortably as possible. 📅 How can you attend Camp Fearless? Camp Fearless is organised by Crohn’s & Colitis Australia, and dates, locations, eligibility requirements and registration details may change from year to year. The 2026 Sydney camp ran from 11–13 September at The Collaroy Centre , and registrations have now closed. Families interested in future camps can contact CCA to ask about upcoming opportunities and announcements. Visit the official website for the latest information: Find out more about Camp Fearless – Crohn’s & Colitis Australia You can also contact Crohn’s & Colitis Australia on 1800 138 029 for information about youth programs and support. 💙 Helping young people feel less alone Living with IBD can bring challenges that other teenagers may not understand. Camp Fearless offers young people the chance to build friendships, share experiences and enjoy being themselves in a supportive environment. Sometimes, meeting someone who simply gets it can make all the difference. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More

Helpful Extras Australia The MLAK key: easier access to toilets across Australia Learn how the MLAK key can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis access compatible locked public toilets across Australia. Find out how to apply, what it costs, where to use it, and how to make outings and family trips a little less stressful. When your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, knowing where the nearest toilet is can be a big part of everyday life. Bowel urgency can happen suddenly, and finding a public toilet that is open and accessible isn’t always easy. The Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) may help make outings, school excursions, family holidays and everyday activities a little less stressful. 🚻 What is an MLAK key? The MLAK key is a special key that opens compatible locked accessible public toilets and other facilities around Australia. These facilities may be located in shopping areas, parks, railway stations, public buildings and other community spaces. Some facilities, including Changing Places amenities, also use the MLAK system. For children and young people living with IBD, having access to an MLAK key can provide another option when they need a toilet urgently. It can also give families greater confidence when travelling or visiting unfamiliar places. Important: The key only works on facilities fitted with a compatible MLAK lock. Not every accessible toilet uses this system. 💙 Can children with IBD get an MLAK key? Eligibility is intended for people with a disability and may require supporting evidence or written authority from a doctor or an appropriate organisation. If your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, it is worth checking the eligibility requirements. You may need to provide evidence of your child’s condition or a supporting letter. Crohn’s & Colitis Australia can also provide information about obtaining a supporting letter for an MLAK application. 📝 How do you get an MLAK key? Getting an MLAK key involves completing an application form before ordering your key. 1. Gather supporting documentation Go to Crohn's and Colitis Australia and complete their Master Locksmiths Access Key Form to generate your supporting evidence letter. 2. Complete the application form Visit the official Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia website and complete the MLAK application form . Check the eligibility criteria and provide the required details. 3. Submit your application and order your key Follow the instructions on the application form. Once your application has been approved, follow the process to purchase your key . 4. Check the cost before ordering The key price and any delivery charges may apply. Some local councils or other providers may offer keys free of charge or at a reduced cost, so check locally before paying. 5. Keep your key handy Attach it to your keyring or keep it in your bag so it is ready whenever you’re out with your child. Apply for an MLAK key: Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia 💰 How much does an MLAK key cost? The standard online price through the Master Locksmiths Association was $64 excluding GST (AUD) following a price change on 1 July 2025. GST and any applicable delivery charges may affect the final amount you pay. Some local councils or other providers may offer keys free of charge or at a reduced cost, so check locally before ordering. If your child is eligible for the NDIS, keep your receipt and check whether the cost can be claimed under your plan. Reimbursement is not guaranteed. Prices and application requirements can change, so confirm the current details with the provider before applying. 📍 Where can you use an MLAK key? MLAK-compatible facilities can be found in a range of locations, including: Public accessible toilets Some railway station facilities Parks and other public spaces Some Changing Places facilities Selected accessible recreation facilities You can use the Australian National Public Toilet Map to help plan outings and find nearby toilet facilities. Check the facility details before travelling, as not every toilet listed will require or accept an MLAK key. Find a toilet near you: Australian National Public Toilet Map 💙 A little more confidence when you’re out and about Living with IBD can mean planning around symptoms that are unpredictable. An MLAK key won’t solve every toilet-access challenge, but it may give your family another useful option when you’re out in the community. Whether you’re heading to the shops, going on a family trip or supporting your child to become more independent, knowing about resources like this can make a difference. 🔗 Where to find more information Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia – MLAK information and ordering Crohn’s & Colitis Australia – MLAK key information and supporting letter Australian National Public Toilet Map This article provides general information. Check current eligibility, pricing and application requirements with the relevant organisation before applying. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More

School School camps, excursions and sport Learn how Australian schools can help children with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis participate in camps, excursions and sport. Discover practical tips for planning medication, ensuring toilet access, managing symptoms and working with teachers to keep activities safe and inclusive. 🏕️ Why are school activities important for children with IBD? School camps, excursions, sports days and physical education are important parts of school life. They give children opportunities to build friendships, develop independence, try new activities and feel included with their classmates. For children living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), these experiences can sometimes require extra planning. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause unpredictable symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue and urgent toilet trips. Some children may also need regular medication, specific dietary arrangements or additional rest during periods of illness. These challenges do not automatically mean a child cannot participate. With thoughtful planning and the right support, many children with IBD can safely enjoy school activities and take part alongside their peers. The aim is to understand each child's individual needs, make reasonable adjustments and avoid excluding them simply because they have a chronic health condition. 📋 Planning ahead for school camps and excursions Good communication between families, teachers and school staff can make a significant difference to how comfortable a child feels participating in activities away from home. Before a camp or excursion, arrange a conversation with the teacher, school wellbeing coordinator or staff member responsible for organising the activity. Discuss the practical arrangements your child may need, including: Access to toilets throughout the day and during travel. Medication storage, administration and timing. Food requirements and access to suitable meals. Rest breaks if fatigue or symptoms develop. What to do if your child becomes unwell. Who will contact you if concerns arise. How your child's privacy will be respected. You do not need to share every detail of your child's medical history with every staff member. However, the staff responsible for their care should have the information they need to follow the agreed plan and respond appropriately. If your child already has a school health care plan or individual support plan, review it before the activity to ensure it covers the additional arrangements needed away from school. 🚽 Toilet access away from school One of the biggest concerns for children with IBD is knowing whether they can access a toilet quickly when they need one. During a flare, toilet urgency can be sudden and difficult to predict. Even children who are feeling well may worry about being far from a toilet or having an accident in front of their classmates. Before an excursion or camp, ask the school to consider: Whether toilets will be available at each activity location. How frequently toilet stops can be made during bus travel. Whether the child can leave an activity immediately to use a toilet. Whether a private toilet or bathroom is available at the accommodation. What arrangements are possible if the nearest toilet is temporarily inaccessible. For longer bus journeys, staff can plan appropriate toilet stops and identify facilities along the route. During outdoor activities, ask whether alternative arrangements are needed if toilets are limited or a long distance away. Children should not have to delay urgent toilet trips or miss out on activities because their toilet needs have not been considered. A discreet toilet pass or agreed signal can help a child ask for assistance without having to explain their condition in front of other students. 💊 Medication arrangements during camps and excursions Some children with IBD need medication at specific times during the day, while others may require medication that needs refrigeration, careful storage or special administration arrangements. Before the activity, speak with the school about your child's medication requirements. Consider discussing: Which medications need to be taken during the activity. The correct timing and dosage. Who is authorised and trained to administer the medication, where required. How medication will be stored securely and at the correct temperature. What to do if a dose is missed or your child becomes unwell. Whether emergency medication or additional supplies are required under their individual care plan. Provide the school with up-to-date medication instructions and any relevant written guidance from your child's healthcare team. Do not assume that medication can be stored in a staff member's bag or left in a child's luggage. Storage and administration arrangements should be agreed in advance, taking into account the medication and the school's policies. If your child takes medication that suppresses the immune system, ask their treating team whether any particular precautions are needed for the planned activities. 🥪 Food, meals and dietary needs School camps and excursions often involve meals, snacks and eating arrangements that differ from a child's usual routine. Some children with IBD have specific nutritional needs, reduced appetites during a flare or dietary restrictions recommended by their healthcare team. Before the activity, discuss the menu and food arrangements with the school or camp provider. You may need to ask: Can suitable meals be provided for your child? Can they bring their own food or snacks if needed? Will drinking water be readily available? Is there somewhere appropriate to store food or nutritional supplements? What happens if your child feels unwell and cannot eat the planned meal? IBD affects children differently, and there is no single diet that works for everyone. Avoid introducing unnecessary dietary restrictions unless they are recommended for your child's individual needs. If your child relies on specific nutritional products or has difficulty eating during a flare, discuss arrangements with their dietitian or treating team before the activity. 🏃 Sport and physical education Many children with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can participate in sport and physical education, particularly when their condition is well controlled. Physical activity can support fitness, wellbeing, confidence and social connection. Having IBD does not automatically mean a child needs to sit out of PE or miss sporting events. However, symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, urgency and joint discomfort may affect what they can manage on a particular day. Schools can support participation by: Allowing unrestricted access to toilets during sport. Providing water and opportunities to rest. Offering flexibility to reduce intensity or take breaks when symptoms develop. Allowing the child to stop an activity if they feel unwell. Adjusting participation temporarily during a flare or recovery. Discussing any specific medical restrictions with the family. The appropriate level of activity depends on the child's symptoms, overall health and any advice from their healthcare team. The goal is to encourage participation without pressuring a child to push through symptoms. If your child is experiencing a significant flare, severe fatigue or other complications, speak with their treating team about what activities are appropriate until they recover. 🚌 What about long bus trips and travel? Travel can be a particular source of anxiety for children who need frequent or urgent toilet access. A long bus trip may involve limited toilet facilities, traffic delays or uncertainty about when the next stop will be. When planning an excursion, ask the school to consider: The length of the journey and opportunities for toilet stops. Whether the child can sit in a location that makes getting off the bus easier. Access to water and any necessary snacks. A discreet way for the child to tell a staff member if they feel unwell. What to do if symptoms develop before reaching the destination. If your child is anxious about having an accident, discuss their concerns privately and agree on a plan that helps them feel safe. Knowing that adults have thought about these situations in advance can make it much easier for a child to enjoy the trip. 🛏️ Planning for overnight school camps Overnight camps may require additional preparation because children are away from their usual routines, family and healthcare team. Depending on your child's needs, consider discussing: Access to a bathroom overnight. Medication timing and storage. Suitable meals, snacks and fluids. Bedding and spare clothing if an accident occurs. What happens if abdominal pain, diarrhoea or fatigue develops overnight. Which staff member will be responsible for helping your child. How parents will be contacted if medical concerns arise. Some children may feel embarrassed about asking for help, especially when sharing a room with classmates. Agree on a discreet way for your child to contact a teacher or supervising adult if they need assistance during the night. If your child is worried about attending, involve them in the planning process. Understanding what will happen and who can help may reduce anxiety and build confidence. 🚨 What if your child becomes unwell during an activity? Even with careful planning, symptoms can develop unexpectedly. Before the activity, make sure the supervising staff know what to do if your child becomes unwell and when they should contact you or seek medical assistance. The plan should explain: Which symptoms require contacting the family or the child's healthcare team. Where the child's medication and relevant medical information are kept. Who is responsible for supervising the child if they need to leave an activity. How urgent medical care will be accessed if necessary. What to do if symptoms occur while travelling or staying overnight. If your child develops severe abdominal pain, significant bleeding, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration or becomes very unwell, seek urgent medical assessment. Staff should follow the school's emergency procedures and any relevant individual health care plan. For children with an existing IBD team, make sure the family knows how to contact the team if symptoms worsen during or after the activity. 💙 Helping your child feel confident and included Sometimes the biggest barrier to participating in school activities is not the activity itself, but the fear of what might happen. Your child may worry about needing the toilet in front of friends, taking medication away from home, feeling exhausted or having to leave an activity unexpectedly. You can help by: Talking through the activity in advance. Asking what your child is most worried about. Involving them in decisions about the support they need. Agreeing on a discreet way to ask for help. Reassuring them that it is okay to take breaks or change plans if they become unwell. Encouraging independence while making sure appropriate adult support is available. Children should not feel that they have to hide their symptoms to fit in. Teachers can also help by treating adjustments as normal practical arrangements, rather than drawing attention to a student's medical condition. 🤝 Working with the school to make participation possible Parents and carers can request a planning meeting with the classroom teacher, school wellbeing coordinator or staff member organising the activity. For children who need ongoing adjustments, a written school support plan can help ensure that arrangements are understood by the relevant staff. Discuss what your child can usually manage, what may change during a flare and how the school should respond if symptoms develop. You can also ask the school to review its plans for toilet access, medication administration, food arrangements and emergency care before confirming participation. Schools have responsibilities relating to student safety, access to education and disability discrimination. Depending on the child's circumstances, IBD may be covered by disability discrimination protections, and reasonable adjustments may be required. If you are concerned that your child is being excluded from a camp, excursion or sporting activity because of their condition, ask the school to discuss the specific barriers and possible adjustments with you. The aim is to find practical ways for your child to participate safely and meaningfully wherever possible. 🔗 Where can you find more information? Your child's school: Discuss individual health care plans, medication arrangements, toilet access and support during camps and excursions. Your child's IBD team: Seek advice about activity levels, fatigue, medication and precautions specific to your child. Australian Human Rights Commission: Learn about disability discrimination and students' rights in education at humanrights.gov.au . This article provides general information for families in Australia and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice. Appropriate arrangements depend on the child's individual needs, the activity and the school's policies. Work with your child's school and healthcare team to plan for safe and inclusive participation. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Support Australia Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Finding out that your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (IBD) can leave you with lots of questions. You may be looking for reliable information, someone who understands what your family is going through, support for your child, or other families who have been through similar experiences. Australia has organisations and services that can help you find information, support, connections and practical resources throughout your IBD journey. 🩺 Crohn’s & Colitis Australia Crohn’s & Colitis Australia (CCA) is the national organisation supporting people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in Australia. CCA provides information and support for people with IBD, parents and carers, children and teenagers, as well as the wider IBD community. Their support services include: IBD information and education Support groups Peer support Telephone support An IBD NurseLine Information forums Resources for children, teenagers and parents An IBD service locator Youth programs and activities Personal stories and lived-experience information CCA also provides an IBD Service Locator , which can help families find IBD and gastroenterology services around Australia. Access to specialist IBD services will usually require a GP referral. 🤝 Finding support from other people with IBD Sometimes you don't need another medical explanation. You just need to talk to someone who understands. Support groups can give people living with IBD and their families an opportunity to meet others who have experienced similar challenges. CCA has support groups for people affected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, including family members and carers. Connecting with other families can help you feel less alone and give you a place to share experiences, ask questions and learn how other people manage life with IBD. ☎️ Telephone support If you have a question or need someone to talk to about IBD, CCA provides telephone support. Their Crohn’s & Colitis Helpline provides general information and guidance, while their IBD NurseLine provides specialised information and guidance from an IBD nurse. Topics can include medications, investigations, treatment, diet, paediatric IBD, school and everyday life with IBD. The CCA support number is 1800 138 029 . These services are not an emergency service. If your child is seriously unwell or you believe they need urgent medical attention, seek medical care immediately. 👧 Support for children and teenagers Children and teenagers can have very different experiences of IBD from adults. They may worry about: Going to school Using the toilet around other people Missing activities Explaining IBD to friends Taking medication Hospital appointments Feeling different from their classmates Making plans when they don't know how they will feel Australian IBD organisations provide resources and programs specifically for young people. CCA has information for children, teenagers and parents , as well as youth programs designed to help young people connect with others living with IBD. 🧑🤝🧑 Connecting with other families Living with childhood IBD can sometimes feel isolating. You may not know another family whose child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Connecting with other parents can give you an opportunity to: Share experiences Ask practical questions Talk about school Discuss everyday challenges Learn how other families manage appointments Find encouragement during difficult periods Help your child feel less alone Remember that everyone's IBD journey is different. What works for one family may not work for another, so use other people's experiences as support rather than as medical advice. 📚 Finding reliable IBD information There is a huge amount of information about IBD online, and not all of it is accurate or appropriate for children. When you're looking for information, try to choose sources that: Clearly distinguish information from medical advice Are relevant to Australia when discussing Australian healthcare Consider the differences between adults and children Encourage you to speak with your healthcare team about individual decisions Your child's gastroenterologist, IBD nurse, GP and other healthcare professionals should remain your main source of advice about your child's individual treatment and care. 🏥 Finding your local IBD service Your child's IBD care may involve a paediatric gastroenterologist, IBD nurse, dietitian, psychologist and other healthcare professionals . Where you live can affect which services are available to you. Some families may have access to a large paediatric IBD centre, while others may need to travel to access specialist care. If you're looking for an IBD service, ask your GP or healthcare team about services available in your area. 💙 Join the IBD Kids community At IBD Kids , we want families to have a place where they can find information, practical resources and connection in one place. Our IBD Kids Facebook Group is a space for parents and families to connect with others who understand what it's like to navigate childhood IBD. You can use the group to: Connect with other parents Share experiences Ask practical questions Talk about school and everyday life Find encouragement from other families Celebrate the good days Know you're not the only one going through this Join our IBD Kids Facebook Group and connect with other families living with IBD. 🌏 You're not alone A diagnosis of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to understand a new diagnosis, medications, appointments, school and everything else that comes with IBD. You don't have to figure everything out at once. Use Australian IBD organisations and support services to find reliable information, connect with other people and learn where to get help when you need it. And remember, you are not alone in this journey. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Healthcare Australia Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. 🩺 What is an IBD specialist? If your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, finding the right specialist is an important step in managing their inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A paediatric gastroenterologist is a doctor who specialises in digestive conditions in children and teenagers. They have specific training in diagnosing and treating IBD and understanding how it affects a child’s growth, development and everyday life. Your child’s specialist can help with diagnosis, treatment plans, medication management, monitoring inflammation and managing flares. They may also coordinate care with IBD nurses, dietitians, psychologists and other healthcare professionals. 🔎 How do you find a paediatric gastroenterologist? In Australia, there are several ways to find a specialist who treats children with IBD. Start with your GP. Your general practitioner can assess your child’s symptoms, organise initial investigations and refer you to a paediatric gastroenterologist. Explain any concerns about persistent diarrhoea, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue or changes in growth. Contact your local children’s hospital. Many major children’s hospitals have paediatric gastroenterology departments that diagnose and manage Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Your GP can help identify the most appropriate service in your state or territory. Explore private specialists. You can ask your GP for recommendations or search for private paediatric gastroenterologists in your area. Check that the specialist regularly treats children with IBD and ask about appointment availability and costs. If you live in a regional or rural area, ask whether a referral to a larger children’s hospital, a regional outreach clinic or a telehealth service may be appropriate. 📋 How do you get a referral? A referral is generally needed to access specialist care. For public hospital care: Your GP will usually refer your child to a paediatric gastroenterology department or specialist outpatient clinic. The hospital reviews the referral and determines the urgency of the appointment based on your child’s symptoms and clinical needs. For private care: A GP referral is generally required to access Medicare rebates for specialist consultations. Contact the specialist’s rooms to confirm their referral requirements, fees and availability. When discussing a referral with your GP, make sure they understand your child’s symptoms, how long they have been occurring and whether they are getting worse. It can also help to include relevant blood tests, stool test results, weight changes and other investigations in the referral. Helpful tip: If your child’s symptoms worsen while waiting for an appointment, contact your GP and the specialist service. Explain what has changed and ask whether the referral needs to be reassessed. 🏥 Public vs private specialist care Families in Australia may access paediatric gastroenterology services through the public hospital system or privately. Public hospital care Eligible patients can access public specialist services through the public health system. Referrals are assessed according to clinical urgency. Care may involve a multidisciplinary team with experience in paediatric IBD. Waiting times vary depending on the hospital, urgency and availability of services. Private specialist care You may have more choice about which specialist you see. Appointment availability varies between providers. Consultation fees and out-of-pocket expenses may apply. Additional costs may arise for procedures, hospital admissions and other services. Private care is not automatically better than public care. The right option depends on your child’s medical needs, local services, availability and your family’s circumstances. Your GP can help you understand the options available. 🚨 What if your child needs urgent specialist care? If your child has symptoms that suggest IBD or an existing diagnosis and their condition is worsening, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. Contact your GP or your child’s IBD team if you notice increasing diarrhoea, blood in the stool, worsening abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or increasing fatigue. If your child has severe abdominal pain, significant bleeding, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration or is becoming very unwell, seek urgent medical assessment. Attend an emergency department if symptoms are severe or your child needs immediate care. Do not wait for a routine specialist appointment if your child’s symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening. 👩⚕️ What is a paediatric IBD team? Managing childhood IBD often involves more than seeing a gastroenterologist. Depending on your child’s needs and the services available, their care team may include: Paediatric gastroenterologist: Oversees diagnosis, treatment and disease monitoring. IBD nurse: Provides education, coordinates care and explains what to do when symptoms change. Dietitian: Supports nutrition, growth and dietary needs. Psychologist: Helps children manage anxiety, stress and the emotional impact of living with a chronic condition. A coordinated team can help families understand treatment options, monitor disease activity and manage the challenges of IBD at home and school. When contacting a hospital, ask whether it has a dedicated paediatric IBD service and how families can contact the team between appointments. 📝 Questions to ask your child’s specialist Choosing a specialist who understands childhood IBD and communicates well with your family can make a real difference. Consider asking: Do you regularly treat children with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis? Does the hospital have a dedicated paediatric IBD team? How often will my child need appointments and monitoring? Who should we contact if symptoms worsen or we suspect a flare? Who coordinates blood tests, stool tests and medication monitoring? What support is available for nutrition, growth and puberty? Can the team help with school absences, fatigue and emotional wellbeing? Are telehealth appointments available if we live far from the hospital? You do not need to ask every question at once. Start with the questions that matter most to your family and build your understanding over time. 📍 Accessing specialist care across Australia Access to paediatric gastroenterology services varies between states and territories. Families living outside major cities may need to travel for appointments, investigations or procedures. Your GP can help identify the most appropriate local service and arrange a referral. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be able to: Access telehealth appointments where offered. Have routine blood tests or other monitoring completed closer to home. Seek assistance through your state or territory’s patient travel assistance scheme if you meet the eligibility requirements. If travel is difficult, explain this to your child’s healthcare team. They may be able to help coordinate appointments and discuss available options. 💙 Supporting your child after diagnosis A new IBD diagnosis can feel overwhelming. There may be appointments to organise, medications to understand, school absences to manage and many questions about your child’s future. You do not need to understand everything immediately. Start by making sure you know who is coordinating your child’s care, how to contact the team and what to do if symptoms worsen. Keep important test results, medication lists and appointment details together so they are easy to access. Finding the right specialist team can help you feel more informed and supported as you learn to manage your child’s condition. 🔗 Where can you find more information? Your GP: For referrals, initial investigations and guidance about available services. Your local children’s hospital: For information about paediatric gastroenterology departments and IBD clinics. Crohn’s & Colitis Australia: Use their service locator to find healthcare professionals and support services for people living with IBD. Your state or territory health department: For information about public hospital services and patient travel assistance. This article provides general information for families in Australia and is not a substitute for medical advice. Referral pathways, eligibility, fees and waiting times vary across Australia. Speak with your child’s healthcare team about their individual needs. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Healthcare Australia Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. If your child has inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), you may need to attend specialist appointments, have regular blood and stool tests, undergo medical procedures and access ongoing treatment. In Australia, Medicare helps cover the cost of many essential healthcare services for eligible people, including children living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. However, not every healthcare service is fully covered by Medicare , and some families may have out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding how Medicare works can help you plan for appointments, treatments and other costs associated with managing your child’s IBD. 💳 What does Medicare cover? Medicare provides benefits for eligible medical services, including many services involved in diagnosing and managing IBD. Depending on your child’s circumstances, Medicare may contribute towards: GP appointments: Eligible consultations and medical services provided by your GP. Specialist appointments: Consultations with paediatric gastroenterologists and other specialists when Medicare requirements are met. Pathology tests: Eligible blood tests, stool tests and other investigations requested by a healthcare professional. Medical imaging: Certain scans and other diagnostic imaging services when Medicare eligibility requirements are met. Hospital treatment: Eligible treatment as a public patient in a public hospital. Some medical procedures: Eligible procedures performed in approved settings when Medicare requirements are satisfied. The amount covered depends on the service, the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item number and the circumstances in which the service is provided. Some services may be fully covered, while others attract a gap payment or are not eligible for a Medicare benefit. 👩⚕️ Specialist appointments & Medicare rebates Children with IBD often need regular appointments with a paediatric gastroenterologist to monitor their condition, review treatment and assess how well their medication is working. If you see a specialist privately, Medicare generally pays a rebate towards eligible consultations when the relevant requirements are met. The specialist sets their own fee, which may be higher than the Medicare rebate. For example, if a specialist charges $250 and the Medicare rebate is $80, your out-of-pocket cost would be $170. This is an illustrative example only. Actual specialist fees and Medicare rebates vary. There are three common billing arrangements: Bulk billing: The provider accepts the Medicare benefit as full payment for the service, so there is no out-of-pocket cost for that service. Medicare rebate with a gap: You pay the provider’s fee and receive a Medicare rebate, leaving you to cover the difference. Public hospital outpatient appointments: Eligible patients generally receive public hospital outpatient care without a consultation fee, although waiting times and service availability vary. Before booking a private appointment, ask the specialist’s rooms about their consultation fee, the expected Medicare rebate and the amount you will need to pay yourself. A referral is generally required to receive a Medicare rebate for a specialist consultation. 🏥 Public vs private hospital costs Your child may receive treatment through a public hospital or a private hospital, depending on their needs, eligibility and care arrangements. Public hospital care If your child is eligible for Medicare and is treated as a public patient in a public hospital, medically necessary public hospital treatment is generally provided without charge. This can include eligible inpatient treatment, hospital accommodation, medical care and necessary procedures provided as part of their public hospital treatment. Public hospital services may also include specialist outpatient clinics, although appointment availability and waiting times vary. Private hospital care If your child is treated as a private patient, costs may include: Hospital accommodation and facility fees. Specialist and anaesthetist fees. Procedures and investigations. Medicines and other hospital-related expenses. Medicare and private health insurance may cover some eligible costs, but they do not necessarily cover everything. Waiting periods, policy exclusions, excesses and other restrictions may apply. Before choosing private treatment, ask the hospital and treating specialists for an estimate of the likely costs and any expected out-of-pocket expenses. 💊 Medication costs & the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme Children with IBD may need ongoing medication to control inflammation and maintain remission. The cost depends on the medication prescribed, whether it is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), and where and how it is supplied. The PBS subsidises many prescription medicines for eligible patients, helping reduce the amount families pay at the pharmacy. From 1 January 2026, the maximum patient co-payment for most PBS prescriptions is $25 per prescription for general patients and $7.70 for eligible concession cardholders. Some medicines may cost more because of brand premiums or other charges. However, not every IBD medication is available on the PBS under every circumstance . Some medicines require specific eligibility criteria or prior approval, and certain treatments may be supplied through hospitals rather than a community pharmacy. If your child is prescribed a new medication, ask their specialist or pharmacist: Is this medication covered by the PBS? Will we need to pay a prescription co-payment or any additional fees? Are there eligibility requirements or approvals we need to know about? Is the medication supplied through a pharmacy or the hospital? Are there any programs or other arrangements that may reduce the cost? You can find more information on the Australian Government's PBS website . 💰 What are out-of-pocket expenses? Out-of-pocket expenses are the costs your family pays yourself after any Medicare rebates, insurance payments or other subsidies have been applied. For families managing childhood IBD, these expenses can add up over time. Common costs may include: GP appointments that are not bulk billed. Gaps between private specialist fees and Medicare rebates. Private hospital fees, excesses and accommodation costs. Medicines that are not fully subsidised. Non-covered tests, procedures or allied health appointments. Travel, parking and accommodation when attending specialist appointments. Special nutritional products or supplements recommended as part of your child's care. Keep receipts and records of your healthcare expenses so you can track spending throughout the year and identify costs that may be eligible for rebates or assistance. 🛡️ Medicare Safety Nets: Help with ongoing medical costs If your child needs frequent specialist appointments, medical tests or other eligible services outside hospital, your family's out-of-pocket expenses may become substantial. Medicare Safety Nets can help eligible people receive higher Medicare benefits once their eligible medical expenses reach a specified threshold within a calendar year. There are two main Medicare Safety Nets: Original Medicare Safety Net: Provides higher benefits for eligible out-of-hospital services once the relevant gap threshold is reached. Extended Medicare Safety Net: Can provide additional benefits for eligible out-of-hospital services after the relevant out-of-pocket threshold is reached. Benefit caps may apply to some services. For families, eligible expenses may be combined by registering as a Medicare Safety Net family with Services Australia. This can help families reach the relevant threshold sooner. Important: Medicare Safety Nets do not cover every healthcare expense. They generally apply to eligible out-of-hospital medical services, not hospital accommodation, medicines or every allied health service. Thresholds change over time, so check the current amounts and family registration requirements through Services Australia — Medicare Safety Nets . 🧾 Practical ways to manage healthcare costs Managing ongoing healthcare expenses can be challenging, especially when your child needs regular appointments and treatment. A few practical steps may help: Ask about fees before appointments. When booking a private specialist, ask for the consultation fee, expected Medicare rebate and estimated out-of-pocket cost. Check whether bulk billing is available. Some GPs and other providers bulk bill eligible services, meaning you do not pay a gap for those services. Keep track of family medical expenses. Review your Medicare Safety Net position and register your family if required. Check prescription costs. Ask your pharmacist whether your child's medication is PBS-listed and whether any additional charges apply. Ask about travel assistance. If you need to travel a significant distance for specialist treatment, check whether your state or territory offers a patient travel assistance scheme. Discuss financial concerns with your healthcare team. If the cost of treatment is becoming difficult to manage, tell your child's specialist or IBD nurse. They may be able to direct you to hospital social workers, patient assistance programs or other relevant support services. 💙 What if you cannot afford your child's healthcare? If healthcare costs are placing pressure on your family, you are not alone. Ongoing medical appointments, prescriptions and travel can create financial stress for families living with childhood IBD. Speak with your child's healthcare team before delaying appointments or stopping prescribed medication because of cost. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to access assistance through hospital social work services, state or territory travel schemes, concession arrangements or other support programs. Your child's healthcare team can help you explore the options that may be available to your family. 🔗 Where can you find more information? Services Australia — Medicare : Information about Medicare benefits, claims and eligibility. Medicare Safety Nets : Learn how family medical expenses may qualify for higher Medicare benefits. Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme : Check information about subsidised prescription medicines. Medical Costs Finder : Compare information about the costs of GP and specialist services. Your local public children's hospital: Ask about outpatient services, financial counselling and support available to families. Your state or territory health department: Find information about patient travel assistance and other local healthcare support. Remember: Medicare can help with many healthcare expenses, but it does not cover every cost associated with managing childhood IBD. Understanding the available rebates, subsidies and assistance programs can help you plan ahead and make informed decisions about your child's care. This article provides general information for families in Australia and is not financial or medical advice. Coverage, eligibility, fees and rebates vary according to individual circumstances. Check current requirements with Services Australia, your healthcare provider or the relevant government department. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Healthcare Australia Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. 🏥 When might a child with IBD need hospital care? Most children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) manage their condition through regular specialist appointments, medication and monitoring. However, sometimes symptoms become severe enough that hospital treatment is needed. A hospital admission may be necessary if your child has: Severe abdominal pain or significant abdominal swelling. Frequent diarrhoea or substantial bleeding from the bowel. Dehydration caused by diarrhoea, vomiting or difficulty drinking. Persistent vomiting or an inability to keep fluids down. A severe flare that is not responding to treatment at home. Significant weight loss or difficulty maintaining adequate nutrition. Complications of IBD or side effects from medication that require hospital assessment. Some children may also need admission for investigations, procedures or treatments that cannot be safely provided at home. Needing hospital care does not mean you have done anything wrong. IBD can be unpredictable, and sometimes children need extra medical support to get their symptoms under control. 🚨 Where should you go in an emergency? Knowing where to go when your child becomes unwell can make a stressful situation a little easier to manage. Call 000 for an ambulance if your child has a life-threatening emergency, such as collapsing, becoming unresponsive, experiencing severe difficulty breathing or showing signs of severe shock. Go to your nearest emergency department if your child has severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, significant rectal bleeding, persistent vomiting, signs of serious dehydration or is becoming very unwell. If your child has an existing paediatric IBD team, contact them promptly when symptoms worsen. They may be able to advise you about the next steps or arrange an urgent assessment. However, do not delay emergency care while waiting for a response. If symptoms are concerning but do not appear immediately life-threatening, your GP or your child's specialist team can help determine the appropriate level of care. Important: Children taking medicines that suppress the immune system may be at increased risk of infections. Seek prompt medical advice if your child develops a fever or appears unwell, and follow any specific instructions provided by their IBD team. 🩺 What happens when your child arrives at hospital? Arriving at an emergency department can feel overwhelming, especially when your child is in pain or frightened. The hospital team will first assess how unwell your child is and determine how urgently they need treatment. The process may include: 1. Triage and initial assessment A nurse will assess your child's symptoms, vital signs and general condition. Children who are more seriously unwell are prioritised, so waiting times can vary. 2. Medical examination A doctor will ask about your child's symptoms, IBD history, medications and recent changes in their health. They may examine your child's abdomen and assess hydration. 3. Investigations Depending on the situation, your child may need blood tests, stool tests, urine tests or imaging such as an ultrasound or X-ray. These investigations can help assess inflammation, dehydration, infection and possible complications. 4. Treatment Treatment depends on what is causing the symptoms and how severe they are. Your child may need fluids, pain relief, anti-nausea medication, nutritional support or changes to their IBD treatment. The team may also consult your child's paediatric gastroenterologist or the hospital's specialist IBD service. Not every child will need every test or treatment. The medical team will decide what is appropriate for your child's condition. 🛏️ What happens if your child Is admitted? If your child needs ongoing treatment, monitoring or investigations, the emergency department team may arrange admission to a paediatric ward. Depending on the hospital and your child's condition, they may be cared for by a paediatric team, with input from a gastroenterologist or specialist IBD team. During the admission, your child may receive: Intravenous fluids: To treat dehydration or support fluid balance. Medication: To manage symptoms and treat inflammation, depending on the cause and severity of the flare. Regular monitoring: Nurses and doctors will monitor symptoms, vital signs, fluid intake and output, and other relevant measures. Blood and stool tests: To assess inflammation, blood counts, electrolytes and other aspects of your child's health. Nutritional support: A dietitian may help if your child is struggling to eat, losing weight or needs a specific nutritional approach. Further investigations: Additional tests may be needed if the team suspects complications or needs to reassess the diagnosis. Some children improve within a short admission, while others need several days or longer. The length of stay depends on their response to treatment, the investigations required and whether it is safe to continue care at home. 💊 Will my child's IBD medication change? During a hospital admission, the medical team will review your child's current medications and decide whether any changes are needed. Depending on the reason for admission, treatment may involve adjusting existing medication, introducing a different treatment or using medication that needs to be administered in hospital. If your child takes immunosuppressants, biologic medicines or other regular treatments, make sure the team knows exactly what they take and when they last took each dose. Do not stop, restart or change your child's IBD medication without medical advice. Some medications may need to be adjusted during an acute illness, particularly if an infection is suspected. Ask the treating team to explain any changes, why they are needed and what the plan will be after discharge. 👨👩👧 Can parents stay with their child? Many Australian children's hospitals allow a parent or carer to stay with their child, although arrangements vary between hospitals and wards. Depending on the hospital, you may be able to stay overnight beside your child. Ask the ward staff about accommodation, visitor arrangements, meals and facilities for parents. If your child is anxious, frightened or struggling with being away from home, let the nurses know. They may be able to offer reassurance, explain procedures in an age-appropriate way and help your child feel more comfortable. You can also ask how you can be involved in everyday care, such as helping your child eat, providing comfort and supporting their usual routines where possible. 🧸 Helping your child feel more comfortable Hospital stays can be particularly difficult for children with IBD because they may already be dealing with pain, fatigue, frequent toilet trips and anxiety about their symptoms. A few familiar items can help make the hospital environment feel less intimidating. Consider bringing: Comfortable pyjamas and spare underwear. Favourite toys, books or comfort items. Headphones, a tablet or other quiet entertainment. A familiar blanket or pillow, if permitted. Toiletries and other everyday essentials. Explain what is happening in simple, honest language. Let your child ask questions, and avoid promising that a procedure or treatment will not hurt if you cannot be certain. If your child is worried about needles, procedures or being away from home, tell the nursing team. They may be able to offer additional support. 🎒 What should you bring to hospital? If your child needs to be admitted, having a few essentials ready can make the experience easier. If the admission is unexpected, do not delay seeking care to pack a bag. You can arrange for someone to bring additional items later. Useful things to bring include: Your child's Medicare card, if available. A list of current medications, doses and allergies. Details of your child's gastroenterologist and IBD team. Recent test results or relevant medical information, if readily available. Comfortable clothing, underwear and toiletries. A phone charger and items to help your child pass the time. If your child has an established IBD care plan, bring a copy if you have one. The hospital may also be able to access relevant information through its medical records or contact your child's usual healthcare team. 🏠 When can your child go home? Before discharge, the medical team will assess whether your child is well enough to continue recovering at home. Depending on the reason for admission, they may want to see improvements in symptoms, adequate fluid intake, better pain control and a treatment plan that can be managed safely outside hospital. Before leaving, make sure you understand: Which medications your child should take and whether any doses have changed. What symptoms to monitor at home. When and where follow-up appointments will occur. Whether repeat blood or stool tests are required. Who to contact if symptoms return or worsen. When you should return to hospital or seek urgent medical attention. Ask for written discharge instructions and clarification of anything you are unsure about. If you are concerned that your child is not ready to go home, explain your concerns to the treating team before discharge. 🔄 What if your child needs to go back to hospital? Sometimes symptoms return after discharge, or a child does not improve as expected. If your child develops worsening abdominal pain, increasing diarrhoea, renewed bleeding, difficulty drinking or other concerning symptoms, contact their IBD team or GP promptly. Seek urgent medical assessment if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening. Do not wait for a scheduled follow-up appointment if your child is becoming significantly unwell. If your child has repeated hospital admissions, ask the IBD team whether a written flare management plan would help your family recognise warning signs and understand whom to contact. 💳 Will hospital treatment cost anything? For eligible Medicare patients treated as public patients in a public hospital, medically necessary hospital treatment is generally provided without charge. However, other expenses may arise, including travel, parking, meals and accommodation for parents. Private hospital treatment may involve additional fees, excesses and out-of-pocket expenses. If costs are a concern, ask the hospital whether social work services, patient travel assistance or other support programs are available to your family. You can also read our guide to Medicare & Healthcare Costs for more information about specialist rebates, medication costs and healthcare expenses in Australia. 💙 Supporting your family during a hospital admission A hospital admission can be frightening and exhausting for both children and parents. You may be worried about your child's health, missing work, arranging care for siblings or trying to understand unfamiliar medical information. It is okay to ask questions, request explanations and ask the team to repeat information if you feel overwhelmed. If possible, arrange practical help from family or friends with meals, transport, school pickups or other responsibilities. Remember that you do not need to manage everything alone. Your child's healthcare team can help you understand the treatment plan and connect you with support where available. 🔗 Where can you find more information? Your child's IBD team: For advice about flares, worsening symptoms and when to seek medical assessment. Your local children's hospital: For information about emergency departments, paediatric wards and hospital admission procedures. Healthdirect Australia: For general health information and guidance about accessing care at healthdirect.gov.au . Your GP: For ongoing care, referrals and follow-up after discharge. This article provides general information for families in Australia and is not a substitute for medical advice. Hospital procedures, treatment plans and admission arrangements vary. Always follow your child's healthcare team's advice about their individual circumstances. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

School Australia School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. 🎒 Why do students with IBD need school support? Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can make everyday school life more challenging. Children and teenagers with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may experience abdominal pain, urgent or frequent toilet trips, fatigue, medication side effects and unpredictable flares. Even when a student looks well, they may be dealing with symptoms that affect their concentration, attendance, energy levels and ability to participate in classroom activities. School support is about helping students access their education while managing their health. With the right adjustments, students can feel safer, more comfortable and more confident at school without being unnecessarily excluded from learning or activities. Support needs will differ between students and may change over time. A child who is feeling well may need only a few adjustments, while a student experiencing a flare may require more flexibility and assistance. 📝 What is an individual school support plan? An individual school support plan is a written agreement that explains a student's health needs and the adjustments the school will make to support them. The name and format of the plan vary between Australian schools and education systems. It may be called an individual health care plan, student support plan, personalised learning plan or another similar name. For a student with IBD, the plan can help teachers, school administration staff, relief teachers and other relevant staff understand what the student needs and what to do when symptoms occur. A school support plan may include: Toilet access: Permission to leave class immediately when needed, without having to wait. Health and medication needs: Relevant information about prescribed medication, medical appointments and agreed arrangements for managing symptoms at school. Classroom adjustments: Permission to leave the classroom, take short breaks or move closer to the door. Assessment arrangements: Flexible deadlines, rest breaks or alternative arrangements when symptoms interfere with schoolwork. Attendance and absences: A plan for catching up on missed lessons and completing work after medical appointments or hospital admissions. Emergency procedures: Clear instructions about who to contact if the student becomes unwell. Communication: An agreed process for communicating with parents or carers about health concerns and changes in support needs. The plan should be developed collaboratively with the student, their parents or carers and appropriate school staff. With consent, relevant advice from the child's treating healthcare team can also help guide suitable adjustments. The aim is to provide practical support while respecting the student's privacy and independence. 🚽 Toilet access: A priority for students with IBD One of the most important adjustments for a student with IBD is immediate access to a toilet. During a flare, a student may experience sudden urgency, frequent diarrhoea, abdominal cramping or fear of having an accident. Even students in remission may worry about needing the toilet unexpectedly. Having to raise a hand, explain symptoms in front of classmates or wait for permission can cause unnecessary stress and embarrassment. Schools can help by agreeing to the following arrangements: Allow the student to leave the classroom immediately when they need the toilet. Provide access to a nearby toilet wherever possible. Arrange a toilet pass or another discreet way to leave class. Ensure the student can access toilets during lessons, exams, excursions and school activities. Identify an appropriate staff contact if additional help is needed. Discuss a discreet plan for managing accidents, including access to spare clothes and a private place to change if required. Students should not be expected to delay urgent toilet trips because of classroom rules. These arrangements should be communicated to the relevant staff so the student does not need to explain their condition repeatedly. ⏰ Flexible deadlines, exams and assessments IBD symptoms can be unpredictable. A student may be well enough to complete an assignment one day but experience a flare, severe fatigue or a medical appointment that affects their ability to meet a deadline the next. Without flexibility, students may feel pressured to choose between looking after their health and keeping up with schoolwork. Possible adjustments include: Extending assignment deadlines when symptoms interfere with completing work. Providing alternative assessment dates when a student is unwell. Allowing supervised rest breaks during exams. Ensuring unrestricted toilet access during assessments. Arranging smaller assessment tasks or adjusted workloads when appropriate. Providing extra time where fatigue, medication effects or other documented needs affect performance. Offering alternative ways to demonstrate learning when an adjustment is appropriate. Assessment arrangements should be discussed with the school as early as possible, particularly before major exams or assessment periods. Schools may have formal processes for special consideration, illness-related extensions or examination adjustments. Requirements differ between states, territories, school sectors and assessment authorities. Medical documentation may be requested, so ask the school what information is needed and how it should be submitted. 🔄 Supporting students during an IBD flare A flare can affect much more than a student's physical health. Pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, poor sleep and anxiety can make it difficult to concentrate, participate in lessons or attend school consistently. During these periods, a student may need temporary adjustments beyond their usual support plan. Depending on their symptoms, these may include: Reduced workload or prioritisation of essential tasks. Flexible deadlines and assessment arrangements. Permission to rest or visit the school sick bay when needed. Access to a quiet space if symptoms or fatigue become overwhelming. Temporary changes to physical education or other demanding activities, guided by the student's healthcare needs. Flexible attendance arrangements when medically necessary. A catch-up plan that avoids expecting the student to complete all missed work immediately. The goal is to maintain a connection with learning without adding unnecessary pressure during a difficult period. A student recovering from a flare or hospital admission may need a gradual return to their usual workload. Parents, the student and the school can review the plan regularly and adjust expectations according to recovery. 🏠 Managing absences, medical appointments and hospital admissions Children with IBD may miss school for specialist appointments, blood tests, procedures, hospital admissions or periods of illness. These absences are often unavoidable. Students should be supported to catch up without feeling overwhelmed or being unfairly penalised for circumstances related to their health. Schools can help by: Providing notes, learning materials or online resources for missed lessons. Identifying the most important work to complete first. Agreeing on realistic catch-up timelines. Coordinating assessment extensions where needed. Avoiding an unrealistic backlog of work after prolonged absences. Planning a supportive return to school after hospitalisation or a significant flare. For longer absences, ask whether the school can arrange additional learning support or other available educational assistance. A clear communication process between the family and school can help teachers understand what the student can reasonably manage while recovering. 😴 Fatigue, concentration and classroom adjustments IBD-related fatigue can be difficult for teachers to recognise. A student may appear distracted, disengaged or less motivated when they are actually struggling with exhaustion, pain, poor sleep or the effects of inflammation. Fatigue can affect memory, concentration, processing speed and the ability to complete work at the same pace as classmates. Helpful adjustments may include: Breaking larger assignments into smaller tasks. Providing written instructions alongside verbal explanations. Allowing short breaks when needed. Prioritising essential learning during periods of significant fatigue. Offering flexibility with homework and deadlines. Checking in privately rather than drawing attention to the student's health in front of peers. These adjustments do not mean lowering expectations unnecessarily. They help students access learning when their health affects how much they can manage. 🏃 Sport, excursions and school camps Students with IBD should have opportunities to participate in school life, including sport, excursions and camps, wherever possible. However, their needs may change depending on symptoms, fatigue, medication, access to toilets and the nature of the activity. Planning ahead can make participation safer and less stressful. Schools and families can discuss: Ready access to toilets during activities and travel. Access to drinking water and rest breaks. Flexible participation during periods of illness or fatigue. Medication arrangements where required. A discreet plan for managing symptoms away from school. Appropriate communication between supervising staff and parents or carers. Students should not automatically be excluded from activities because they have IBD. Decisions should be based on their individual health needs, any medical advice and the adjustments that can reasonably be put in place. 🤝 Working with the school to create a support plan Parents and carers can request a meeting with the classroom teacher, year-level coordinator, school wellbeing team or relevant health and learning support staff. The student should also be involved in decisions where appropriate, particularly as they get older and become more independent. Before the meeting, consider making a list of the situations that are most difficult for your child. For example, they may be worried about asking to use the toilet, completing assessments during a flare or explaining frequent absences to teachers. During the meeting, discuss: Which symptoms are most likely to affect school. What adjustments are needed during ordinary school days. What changes may be required during a flare. Who the student can approach for help. How information will be shared with relevant staff while protecting privacy. How parents and the school will communicate about absences or changes in health. When the plan will be reviewed. It can also be helpful to ask how the arrangements will be communicated to relief teachers and other staff who supervise the student. A written plan gives everyone a shared understanding of what has been agreed and helps make support more consistent. ⚖️ What are a school's responsibilities in Australia? Australian schools have responsibilities relating to student safety, wellbeing, access to education and disability discrimination. The specific policies and procedures vary between government, Catholic and independent schools, as well as across states and territories. Depending on the student's circumstances, IBD may be covered by disability discrimination protections if it meets the relevant legal definition of disability. The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) and the Disability Standards for Education 2005 establish important protections concerning access to education and reasonable adjustments for students with disability. This does not mean every requested adjustment must automatically be provided. The student's individual needs, the circumstances of the school and the applicable legal requirements must be considered. If you are having difficulty arranging support, you can: Request a meeting with the principal or relevant school support coordinator. Ask for the school's health, wellbeing and disability adjustment policies. Contact your state or territory education department for guidance. Seek advice from an appropriate advocacy service if concerns remain unresolved. For more information, visit the Australian Human Rights Commission or the Australian Government Department of Education . 📥 Download our free IBD School Support Plan Not sure how to explain your child's needs to their school? Our free IBD School Support Plan can help you communicate your child's symptoms, toilet access needs, classroom adjustments and support during flares. Use it to start a conversation with your child's teachers and school staff, so everyone understands how they can help your child feel safe, supported and included at school. IBD School Support Plan for Parents .pdf Download PDF • 328KB 💙 Helping your child feel safe and supported at school Living with IBD can make children feel different from their classmates, especially when symptoms are unpredictable or require frequent absences. A supportive school environment helps students feel comfortable asking for help without embarrassment or fear of being judged. Encourage your child to identify a trusted staff member they can approach if they feel unwell or need assistance. Reassure them that they do not need to explain their medical condition to every classmate or teacher. As children get older, they can gradually take a more active role in communicating their needs and managing their support arrangements, with help from their parents and healthcare team. The most effective support plans are practical, flexible and reviewed regularly. They recognise that IBD can change over time and that students deserve the opportunity to learn, participate and feel included, even when their health is difficult to manage. 🔗 Where can you find more information? Your child's school: Ask about individual health care plans, learning adjustments, toilet access and illness-related assessment arrangements. Your state or territory education department: Find school policies and guidance on student health, disability adjustments and attendance. Australian Human Rights Commission: Information about disability discrimination and the rights of students with disability. Your child's IBD team: Advice about symptoms, fatigue, treatment and any health considerations the school needs to understand. This article provides general information for families in Australia and is not legal or medical advice. School policies, adjustment processes and legal obligations may vary according to individual circumstances. Speak with your child's school and healthcare team about their specific needs. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

School Australia School attendance & catching up on learning Learn how to manage school absences caused by IBD flares, medical appointments and hospital stays. Discover practical ways to catch up on schoolwork, arrange flexible deadlines, support recovery and help your child return to the classroom with confidence. 🎒 Why can IBD affect school attendance? For children and teenagers living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, attending school regularly is not always straightforward. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause unpredictable symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue and the urgent need to use the toilet. Students may also need time away from school for specialist appointments, blood tests, procedures, hospital admissions or recovery after a flare. Even when a student feels well enough to attend school, they may be dealing with poor sleep, low energy or difficulty concentrating. Missing school because of IBD is not a sign that a student is falling behind by choice. Sometimes their health needs to come first. With the right support, schools and families can work together to help students stay connected to learning, manage missed work and return to the classroom without unnecessary pressure. 🏥 Managing absences for appointments and hospital stays Children with IBD often need ongoing medical appointments and investigations to monitor their condition and treatment. These may include: Appointments with a paediatric gastroenterologist or IBD nurse. Blood tests and stool tests. Colonoscopies, endoscopies or other medical procedures. Hospital admissions for severe flares or complications. Follow-up appointments after treatment or discharge. Whenever possible, let the school know about planned absences in advance. You do not need to share every medical detail, but explaining that your child has a chronic health condition can help staff understand why absences occur. For longer absences, ask the school to identify essential learning tasks and provide access to class notes, worksheets or online learning materials. After a hospital admission, your child may need time to recover before returning to their usual workload. Discuss a realistic plan with the school rather than expecting them to complete every missed task immediately. 🔄 What happens when a flare causes repeated absences? IBD flares can be unpredictable. A student may attend school one day and be too unwell to attend the next. During a flare, symptoms such as frequent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue and poor sleep can make it difficult to concentrate, travel to school or participate in lessons. Some students may miss several consecutive days, while others may experience intermittent absences over a longer period. During these times, schools can help by: Providing flexibility with attendance where appropriate. Reducing or prioritising schoolwork temporarily. Extending assignment deadlines. Allowing alternative assessment arrangements when needed. Sharing essential learning materials with the student. Agreeing on a manageable plan for catching up. The goal is to maintain a connection with learning without adding unnecessary stress while a student is unwell. If your child is experiencing repeated absences, arrange a meeting with the school to discuss what support may be needed. A written plan can help teachers respond consistently when symptoms change. 📚 How can students keep up with schoolwork? Trying to catch up on several days or weeks of missed learning can feel overwhelming, particularly when a student is still recovering. Rather than attempting to complete everything at once, focus on the most important tasks first. 1. Ask teachers to prioritise essential work Teachers can identify which topics, activities and assessments are most important. Not every missed worksheet needs to be completed if it does not contribute meaningfully to learning. 2. Break tasks into smaller steps A large assignment can feel difficult to manage when energy levels are low. Breaking it into smaller tasks with realistic deadlines can make it more achievable. 3. Use online learning resources If the school provides a learning management system, ask whether class notes, presentations, recorded lessons or assignments can be accessed from home. 4. Agree on realistic deadlines A student returning after a flare or hospital admission may need extensions. Teachers can help spread out deadlines rather than requiring multiple assignments to be completed at once. 5. Build in rest Recovery takes energy. Encourage your child to work in manageable blocks and take breaks when needed, rather than pushing through exhaustion. Remember that catching up is a process. It may take time for your child to return to their usual routine. 😴 Understanding fatigue and concentration IBD-related fatigue can continue even when a student is back at school. A child may appear distracted, slow to complete work or less engaged than usual. They may be struggling with exhaustion, poor sleep, pain or the effects of their condition and treatment. Helpful classroom adjustments may include: Providing written instructions and notes. Breaking larger assignments into smaller tasks. Allowing short rest breaks when needed. Reducing non-essential work during recovery. Offering flexibility with homework and assessment deadlines. Checking in privately to see whether the student needs support. If fatigue is persistent or significantly affecting your child's daily life, discuss it with their healthcare team. 🏫 Planning a return to school after a flare or hospital admission Returning to school after being unwell can be both exciting and stressful. Your child may be looking forward to seeing friends but worried about falling behind, feeling exhausted during lessons or needing the toilet unexpectedly. A planned return can help make the transition easier. Before your child returns, consider arranging a meeting or conversation with the school to discuss: Whether a gradual return is appropriate. Which missed assignments need to be prioritised. Any temporary adjustments to workload or attendance. Toilet access and other health-related needs. Who your child can approach if they feel unwell. How teachers will communicate important learning tasks. Some students will be ready to return to their usual timetable straight away. Others may benefit from temporary flexibility, depending on their recovery and medical needs. Any changes to attendance or participation should be agreed with the school and guided by your child's circumstances and healthcare advice where needed. 🤝 Working with teachers to create a catch-up plan Communication between families and schools can make a significant difference when a student misses school regularly. Rather than contacting every teacher separately, ask whether one staff member, such as a year-level coordinator, wellbeing coordinator or learning support teacher, can help coordinate the plan. A practical catch-up plan might include: A list of missed topics and essential assignments. Agreed deadlines that allow time for recovery. Access to notes and learning materials. Adjustments for tests and examinations. Regular check-ins to review progress. A process for updating the plan if another flare occurs. It is also helpful to review the plan after a period of illness to see what worked and what needs to change. The aim is to help your child make progress without feeling that they must compensate for every absence immediately. 💬 Helping your child cope emotionally Missing school can affect more than academic progress. Children may worry about falling behind, disappointing their teachers, missing time with friends or being treated differently because of their condition. Some may feel embarrassed about explaining their absences or anxious about returning when classmates have moved on to new topics. You can help by: Reassuring your child that their health is not their fault. Encouraging them to focus on manageable goals rather than everything they have missed. Helping them stay connected with friends during longer absences. Asking the school to provide a supportive return rather than drawing unwanted attention to their health. Acknowledging their effort, even when they cannot manage their usual workload. If school-related anxiety becomes persistent or starts affecting your child's wellbeing, speak with their healthcare team or an appropriate mental health professional. 📋 What support can Australian schools provide? The support available will depend on the school, the student's needs and the relevant state or territory education policies. Possible adjustments include flexible deadlines, access to learning materials during absences, modified assessment arrangements, a reduced workload during recovery and a written health or student support plan. For students who need more extensive support, ask the school about its learning support procedures and whether additional educational assistance is available. If your child is missing substantial amounts of school, it is worth discussing a more formal plan rather than managing each absence separately. You can also read our related guide, School Support Plans & Adjustments , for information about toilet access, flexible deadlines and support during flares. 💙 Remember: Health comes first Managing school alongside Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can be challenging for the whole family. There may be times when your child needs to miss school, rest or focus on medical treatment. Falling behind temporarily does not mean they cannot succeed academically. With understanding teachers, realistic expectations and a clear plan for catching up, students can continue learning while managing their health. The goal is progress, not perfection. Your child deserves the time and support they need to recover and return to learning at a manageable pace. 🔗 Where can you find more information? Your child's school: Ask about attendance policies, assessment extensions, learning support and arrangements for catching up after absences. Your state or territory education department: Find guidance on student attendance, illness-related absences and educational support. Your child's IBD team: Discuss fatigue, flares, recovery and any medical considerations affecting school attendance. This article provides general information for families in Australia and is not a substitute for medical or educational advice. School policies and available adjustments vary. Work with your child's school and healthcare team to develop a plan that meets their individual needs. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medicare & healthcare costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More Finding an IBD specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Healthcare Australia The Australian healthcare system Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia If your child has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (IBD) , understanding the Australian healthcare system can make appointments, referrals, hospital visits and treatment a little easier to navigate. Australia has a public healthcare system through Medicare , as well as private healthcare. Many children and families with IBD use a combination of both. Here’s how it works. 👇 🩺 Where do you start? For many families, the GP (general practitioner) is the first step when a child develops symptoms that could be IBD. A GP can: Talk through symptoms and medical history Arrange blood tests and stool tests Request investigations such as faecal calprotectin Refer your child to a paediatric gastroenterologist Help manage your child’s health while you are waiting for a specialist appointment If IBD is suspected, your GP may refer your child to a specialist for further investigation and diagnosis. 👩⚕️ Who looks after a child with IBD? IBD care can involve a whole team of healthcare professionals. This may include: 🩺 GP – provides general healthcare and helps coordinate care. 👨⚕️ Paediatric gastroenterologist – specialises in digestive conditions in children and teenagers and manages IBD treatment. 👩⚕️ IBD nurse – may provide education, support and help coordinate care, depending on the service. 🥗 Dietitian – can help with nutrition, growth, deficiencies and food-related concerns. 🧠 Psychologist or mental health professional – can help children manage anxiety, stress, body image and the emotional impact of living with IBD. 🩸 Other specialists – your child may also see other healthcare professionals depending on their symptoms, treatment and individual needs. Not every hospital or IBD service has access to the same team. Access to multidisciplinary IBD care can vary across Australia, particularly between metropolitan, regional and private services. 🏥 Public healthcare and Medicare Medicare is Australia's public healthcare system. If your child is eligible for Medicare, they can receive treatment as a public patient in a public hospital without being charged for hospital treatment . For children with IBD, this can include things such as: Blood tests and investigations Hospital treatment Specialist hospital clinics Some prescription medications through the PBS Investigations and procedures, depending on where they are performed However, not every healthcare service is completely free, and some appointments, tests and specialists may involve an out-of-pocket cost . 🏥 What is the difference between public and private care? 💙 Public healthcare If your child is treated as a public patient, Medicare covers eligible hospital treatment. Public hospitals can provide access to specialist teams and are often equipped to manage complex or emergency medical conditions. However, waiting times can vary , particularly for non-urgent appointments and procedures. 💜 Private healthcare Private healthcare may allow you to: Choose your specialist Access private gastroenterology clinics Potentially have shorter waiting times for some planned care Choose a private hospital if required Private care can also involve specialist fees, hospital fees, anaesthetic fees and other out-of-pocket costs , depending on your insurance and the service. Having private health insurance does not mean you have to use the private system. You can still access public healthcare as a public patient. 📋 Do you need a referral? If you want to see a specialist gastroenterologist , you will usually need a referral from a GP or another doctor. For specialist IBD services, a GP referral is commonly required. 💡 Tip: If your child has ongoing symptoms, ask your GP whether a referral to a paediatric gastroenterologist or IBD service is appropriate. 🔬 What happens when IBD is being investigated? There isn't one single test that diagnoses IBD. Your child's healthcare team may use several types of investigations, including: Blood tests Stool tests, including faecal calprotectin Stool tests to check for infection Colonoscopy and/or gastroscopy Biopsies MRI, CT or other imaging when appropriate These tests help doctors look for inflammation, rule out other causes of symptoms and determine whether IBD may be present. 🚨 What if my child is having a severe flare? Sometimes IBD symptoms become severe enough that a child needs urgent medical assessment or hospital care. If your child is seriously unwell or you are concerned about an emergency, seek urgent medical attention. A public hospital emergency department can provide emergency care, with eligible patients covered by Medicare. If you aren't sure what to do, you can contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for health advice from a registered nurse. 💊 What about IBD medications? IBD medications can be expensive, particularly when they need to be taken long term. Some medicines are subsidised through Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) , which can make eligible medicines more affordable. However, not every medication is covered in the same way, and some medicines may have additional eligibility requirements. Your child's gastroenterology team or pharmacist can explain how their particular medication is supplied and what it will cost. 💰 What about healthcare costs? Even with Medicare, families can sometimes have out-of-pocket healthcare costs . These may include: GP appointments Private gastroenterologist appointments Specialist tests Private hospital fees Anaesthetist fees Some allied health appointments Medications and pharmacy costs If your family has significant out-of-pocket medical expenses, the Medicare Safety Net may help increase the Medicare benefit for some eligible out-of-hospital services once the relevant threshold is reached. 🗺️ What if you live outside a major city? Access to IBD services can be different depending on where you live. Children living in metropolitan areas may have easier access to large paediatric hospitals and multidisciplinary IBD teams. Families in regional and rural areas may need to travel to access specialist IBD services. Some hospitals have developed outreach programs to support regional patients, but access to specialist and multidisciplinary IBD care can vary between locations. 📍 If you're looking for an IBD service near you, Crohn's & Colitis Australia has an IBD Service Locator . ❤️ You don't have to navigate it alone Having a child diagnosed with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can feel overwhelming. You may suddenly find yourself dealing with: 🩺 GPs 👩⚕️ Gastroenterologists 🏥 Hospitals 🔬 Tests and procedures 💊 Medications 🥗 Dietitians 🏫 School 💰 Healthcare costs 📅 Regular appointments It can take time to understand how everything fits together. The good news is that you don't need to know everything at once . Your child's IBD team can help you understand their diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care. Remember: Every child's IBD journey is different. Your child's gastroenterology team is the best source of advice about their individual diagnosis, treatment and healthcare needs. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like School attendance & catching up on learning Read More Finding an IBD Specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More School support plans & adjustments Learn how Australian schools can support students with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis through individual support plans, toilet access, flexible deadlines, adjustments during flares, and help with absences. Includes guidance for working with your child’s school and a link to our free IBD School Support Plan download. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Hospital admissions & emergency care Learn what to expect if your child with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis needs hospital care in Australia, including emergency care, hospital admissions, treatment, what to bring, discharge planning, and support for families. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Medicare & Healthcare Costs Understand how Medicare works for children with IBD in Australia, including specialist rebates, public and private hospital costs, subsidised medications, Medicare Safety Nets, and ways to manage out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

School Australia IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Going to school with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (IBD) can sometimes be challenging. IBD symptoms can be unpredictable. A student may need urgent access to the toilet, miss school because of a flare or medical appointments, feel exhausted, take medication during the school day or need extra time to catch up after an absence. With the right support and reasonable adjustments, students with IBD can participate in school, learning, sport, excursions and social activities alongside their classmates. 🏫 How can schools support a student with IBD? The first step is good communication between the family, student and school. It can help to make sure key staff understand: What IBD is How it affects the student What symptoms they may experience What to do if they become unwell at school Where they can access a toilet Whether they need medication during the school day What happens if they need to leave class suddenly How the school will support them after an absence The student should also have a say in their support, particularly as they get older. 🚽 Toilet access One of the most important accommodations for a student with IBD is immediate and unrestricted access to a toilet . IBD can cause: Urgency Frequent bowel movements Diarrhoea Abdominal pain Accidents The need to use the toilet without warning A student should not have to wait for permission when they urgently need to use the bathroom. Practical arrangements may include: A toilet pass Permission to leave class without asking Access to the nearest toilet Access to an alternative toilet where appropriate A private signal between the student and teacher A seat close to the classroom door A plan for what happens if an accident occurs 📚 Absences and missed school IBD can result in absences because of: Flares Hospital admissions Gastroenterology appointments Blood tests and investigations Colonoscopies and other procedures Infusions Medication side effects Fatigue Recovery after illness or treatment Missing school because of IBD does not mean a student is not interested in learning. When they are well enough to return, they may need help catching up without feeling overwhelmed. 📝 Catching up after an absence A school can work with the student and family to create a simple plan for missed work. This might include: Providing class notes Identifying the most important work to complete first Giving access to online learning materials Allowing additional time for assignments Adjusting deadlines when appropriate Providing a teacher or learning-support contact Helping the student prioritise missed work Avoiding an overwhelming pile of work immediately after returning The goal should be to help the student reconnect with learning , rather than expecting them to complete everything they missed at once. 🧠 Fatigue and concentration IBD-related fatigue can make school particularly difficult. A student may look fine but still have difficulty with: Concentration Memory Processing information Completing work Staying focused for long periods Participating in sport Managing a full school day Possible adjustments could include: Short rest breaks Additional time for tasks Reduced workload during periods of significant illness Flexible deadlines A quieter place to complete work Breaking larger tasks into smaller sections Catch-up time after medical appointments or absences The appropriate adjustments will depend on the individual student's needs. 💊 Medication at school Some students with IBD need medication during school hours. The school and family should discuss: What medication needs to be taken When it needs to be taken Where it will be stored Who is responsible for administering it What happens if a dose is missed What to do if the student becomes unwell Medication arrangements should be documented clearly so the student does not have to repeatedly explain their medical needs to different staff members. 🥗 Food and dietary needs Not every child with IBD needs a special diet. However, some students may have individual dietary requirements or restrictions recommended by their healthcare team. Schools should be made aware of any relevant requirements, particularly for: School camps Excursions School events Class parties Food technology School canteens It is important that dietary needs are handled respectfully and that students are not singled out unnecessarily. 🏃 Sport and physical education IBD does not automatically mean a student cannot participate in sport. Many children and teenagers with IBD can take part in physical activity when they are well enough. However, during a flare or period of significant fatigue, they may need temporary adjustments. These might include: Taking additional breaks Modifying activities Having easy access to a toilet Sitting out when they are unwell Gradually returning to physical activity after illness or hospitalisation The student's healthcare team can provide advice when there are specific medical restrictions. 🚌 Excursions, camps and school activities IBD should not automatically prevent a student from joining in with school activities. Planning ahead can make a big difference. Before an excursion or camp, consider: Where the nearest toilets are How quickly the student can access them Whether medication is required What food will be available What happens if the student becomes unwell How medical information will be communicated Who the student can speak to privately What arrangements are needed for transport A student should be included in planning wherever possible. 📝 Exams and assignments IBD symptoms can make exams and assessment periods particularly difficult. A student may experience pain, urgency, fatigue, hospital appointments or a flare during an important assessment period. Depending on their circumstances, possible adjustments may include: Toilet access during exams Additional rest breaks Additional working time where appropriate A separate or quieter examination environment Rescheduling an assessment when medically necessary Extensions for assignments Alternative arrangements following significant illness or hospitalisation The exact arrangements depend on the school, education system and type of assessment. For major external assessments, such as senior secondary examinations, additional processes may apply. 🤝 Reasonable adjustments Australian education providers have obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and Disability Standards for Education 2005 to support students with disability. This includes making reasonable adjustments that allow students with disability to participate and learn on the same basis as students without disability. A chronic health condition such as IBD may, depending on the individual circumstances, be relevant to disability protections. Reasonable adjustments are individual. What one student needs may be very different from what another student with IBD needs. 📋 Creating an IBD school support plan A written IBD School Support Plan can help everyone understand what the student needs. It could include: Student information Name, year level and key school contacts. Medical information A brief explanation of IBD and the student's individual symptoms. Toilet arrangements Where the student can go and how they can leave class. Medication What medication is required during school hours and the agreed arrangements. Flare plan What staff should do if symptoms suddenly become worse. Absences How the school will communicate missed work and support the student when they return. Learning adjustments Any agreed adjustments for fatigue, concentration, assignments and exams. Sport and activities Any temporary restrictions or adjustments. Emergency contacts Parent or caregiver and relevant medical contacts. You can download our free school plan here: IBD School Support Plan for Parents .pdf Download PDF • 328KB 🧑🏫 Who at school should know? The student does not necessarily need to explain their condition to everyone at school. It can be helpful to identify a small group of staff who need to know, such as: Classroom teacher Year-level coordinator Wellbeing or learning-support staff School nurse, where available Principal or relevant school leader Sports or PE teacher Staff supervising camps and excursions The student should have a say in who knows about their IBD and what information is shared . 🧾 What is the NCCD? Some students with IBD may receive adjustments at school that are relevant to Australia's Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD) . The NCCD collects information about students who receive reasonable adjustments to participate in education on the same basis as students without disability. The NCCD is about the adjustments a student receives , rather than simply whether they have an IBD diagnosis. Schools determine whether a student meets the NCCD requirements based on the relevant criteria and evidence. If your child requires ongoing adjustments because of IBD, it may be worth asking the school whether their support needs are being appropriately documented. 🗣️ Talk to the school early You don't have to wait until your child is struggling before talking to their school. A conversation early in the school year, after diagnosis or when treatment changes can help everyone understand what your child needs. It can be useful to arrange a meeting with the relevant school staff and bring information from your child's IBD team if appropriate. ❤️ School should still feel like school IBD can already take up a lot of a child's life. Hospital appointments, tests, medications and symptoms can make them feel different from their classmates. School should be a place where they can learn, make friends, play sport, join excursions and feel included. With good communication, practical adjustments and understanding from school staff, children and teenagers with IBD can continue to be part of school life. IBD may change what a student needs at school, but it doesn't have to stop them from being part of it. This information is general and does not replace advice from your child's healthcare team or your school. Education requirements and processes can vary between Australian states and territories. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Finding an IBD Specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More The Australian Healthcare System Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Medications Australia Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. If your child has been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (IBD) , you may quickly find yourself learning about medicines you have never heard of before. There are several different types of IBD medications available in Australia , and the medicine your child needs will depend on their age, type of IBD, symptoms, disease severity and how they respond to treatment. IBD treatment aims to control inflammation, help your child feel better, achieve remission and reduce the risk of future flares and complications. 💊 What types of IBD medications are used? There are several groups of medicines that may be used to treat IBD. These include: 5-ASA medicines such as mesalazine Corticosteroids Immunomodulators such as azathioprine Biologic medicines Other advanced therapies, including some targeted medicines Antibiotics in certain situations Not every medicine is suitable for every child, and some medicines are used more commonly for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis than others. 🧡 5-ASA medicines 5-ASA medicines, also known as aminosalicylates, are commonly used to treat inflammation, particularly in ulcerative colitis . One example is mesalazine . In Australia, mesalazine is available under several brand names, including Pentasa and Salofalk . Mesalazine can be used to treat active disease and, in some cases, help maintain remission. Pentasa is listed in Australia for the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease and for maintenance of remission. These medicines can come in different forms, including tablets, capsules, granules and rectal preparations. 💉 Steroids Corticosteroids can be used to help bring a flare under control because they can reduce inflammation relatively quickly. Examples include medicines such as prednisolone and budesonide. Steroids are generally not intended to be a long-term maintenance treatment because prolonged steroid use can cause significant side effects. Your child's gastroenterologist will determine whether a steroid is appropriate and how it should be used. 🧪 Immunomodulators Immunomodulators work by changing or reducing certain immune system activity involved in inflammation. One example is azathioprine . These medicines may be used as part of an IBD treatment plan for some children. Because medicines such as azathioprine affect the immune system, children taking them may need regular blood tests and monitoring. Your child's IBD team will explain what monitoring is required and what symptoms you should look out for. 🧬 Biologic medicines Biologic medicines are advanced medicines that target specific parts of the immune system involved in inflammation. They may be used when IBD is moderate to severe, when other treatments have not worked well enough, or when a child needs a different approach to controlling their disease. Biologic medicines used in IBD can include medicines that target specific inflammatory pathways, such as tumour necrosis factor or other immune pathways. Some are given by infusion into a vein , while others are given as an injection under the skin. The choice of biologic depends on your child's individual circumstances and their gastroenterologist's treatment plan. 🏥 What are biologics like in Australia? For some children, biologic treatment is provided through a hospital or specialist IBD service. Depending on the medicine and treatment plan, your child may receive their medication through an infusion at hospital or learn how to have an injection at home. Some biologic medicines are subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) when specific eligibility requirements are met. PBS restrictions can apply, so the fact that a medicine exists in Australia does not necessarily mean every patient can automatically receive it through the PBS. Your child's gastroenterology team or hospital pharmacy can explain whether your child's particular medicine is PBS-subsidised and what criteria apply. 💰 What is the PBS? The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) helps make many prescription medicines more affordable for eligible Australians. Some IBD medicines are available through the PBS. For example, current Australian medicine information confirms that both Pentasa (mesalazine) and Salofalk (mesalazine) have PBS listings. However, PBS availability can depend on the particular medicine, strength, formulation and clinical circumstances. A medicine being available in Australia does not always mean it is automatically subsidised for every person or every use. 🧾 Why does my child's doctor mention PBS criteria? Some medicines have specific PBS requirements . This means your child's doctor may need to confirm that your child meets particular criteria before the medicine can be supplied under the PBS. For advanced IBD treatments, this can involve things such as: The type of IBD How severe the disease is Previous treatments Whether previous treatments have worked Whether the child has lost response to another medicine Age or other eligibility requirements Your gastroenterologist can explain the criteria that apply to your child's particular medicine. 💳 How much do IBD medications cost? The cost of IBD medication can vary significantly. If a medicine is supplied through the PBS and your child is eligible, you generally pay the applicable PBS patient contribution rather than the full price of the medicine. Some medicines may not be PBS-subsidised for your child's particular situation, and private prescriptions can cost considerably more. There may also be differences between medicines supplied through a hospital and those collected from a community pharmacy. It is always worth asking: "Is this medicine PBS-subsidised for my child?" and "How much will we have to pay?" 🏪 Where do you get IBD medications? Where you collect your child's medication will depend on the medicine. Some medicines can be collected from a community pharmacy with a prescription. Other medicines, particularly some biologic treatments, may be supplied through a hospital pharmacy or administered at a hospital or specialist infusion centre. Your IBD team should tell you where your child's medication needs to be collected or administered. 📅 What happens if we run out of medication? Try not to wait until the last dose before organising a repeat prescription. Some IBD medications need to be ordered by the pharmacy, while hospital medications may require coordination with your IBD team. Keeping track of when your child's medication is running low can help prevent missed doses. If you are going away, travelling or moving between cities, speak with your child's healthcare team or pharmacist beforehand so you can make a plan for getting enough medication. 🧒 Can children take the same IBD medications as adults? Children can use many of the same types of IBD medications as adults, but doses, formulations and approved uses can differ . Paediatric IBD treatment needs to take into account things such as: Age Weight Growth Puberty Disease location and severity Other medications Previous treatment Blood test results Some medicines may also have age-specific approvals or PBS requirements. Your child's paediatric gastroenterologist will choose treatment based on your child's individual needs. 🔄 What happens if a medication stops working? Unfortunately, IBD medications do not work perfectly for everyone. Sometimes a medicine may never control the inflammation adequately. In other cases, it may work well for a while and then become less effective. If your child develops symptoms again, their IBD team may investigate whether they are having a flare and whether the medicine is still working. This may involve blood tests, stool tests such as faecal calprotectin , imaging, endoscopy or other investigations. The treatment may then be adjusted if necessary. ⚠️ What about side effects? All medicines can have side effects. The possible side effects depend on the medication your child is taking. Some medicines require specific monitoring, such as regular blood tests. Make sure you know: What your child's medication is called Why they are taking it How much they should take When they should take it What side effects to look out for Which symptoms require urgent medical attention What monitoring is required Who to contact if you have concerns Never stop or change your child's IBD medication without speaking with their healthcare team first. 📋 Keep a medication list Having an up-to-date medication list can be incredibly useful. Keep a record of: Medication: Dose: How often: Why they take it: When they started: Prescribing doctor: Pharmacy: Next prescription due: You can also keep a copy on your phone so you have it with you during hospital visits, appointments and emergencies. Where can you find reliable information? Medication information can change, so it is important to use reliable Australian sources. You can check medicine information through Healthdirect , the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) . Your child's gastroenterologist, IBD nurse and pharmacist can also explain how a particular medication is used and supplied in Australia. ❤️ Remember IBD medications can feel overwhelming at first. You may hear names such as mesalazine, azathioprine, steroids, biologics and other advanced therapies and wonder how you are supposed to remember what they all do. You don't need to learn everything at once. Your child's IBD team should explain why a medication has been recommended, how it is given, what monitoring is needed and what to do if you have concerns. Never change, stop or restart an IBD medication without speaking with your child's doctor or IBD team. Previous Next Found this helpful? Share it with a friend, parent, teacher, or someone who might need it. Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link You might also like Finding an IBD Specialist in Australia Learn how to find a paediatric gastroenterologist in Australia, get a referral, understand public and private specialist care, and access the right support for your child living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Read More Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More The Australian Healthcare System Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More

Helping kids with IBD feel less alone. Practical, kids-friendly information and support for children, teens, parents and schools living with Crohn's disease and ucertative colitis. Launching January 2027 Be the first to know when IBD Kids launches. Email Join our email list A place made for kids with IBD IBD Kids is being created to give kids and teens real answers to their questions while supporting parents and schools with practical, trustworthy information. Kids & Teens Real answers to real questions about everyday life with IBD. Parents Practical support for the journey, from diagnosis to everyday life. Teachers & Schools Helping schools understand and support students with IBD. Launching January 2027 Want to be the first through the door? Email Join our email list We'll let you know when IBD Kids is ready to launch. Information. Support. Understanding. IBD Kids provides educational information and is not a substitute for medical advice from your child's healthcare team.

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Food & Nutrition Food and nutrition can be a little different when you have IBD. Here you’ll find practical information about eating well, managing food during a flare, and finding foods that work for you. More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Tests & Procedures Tests and procedures can help your care team understand what’s happening inside your body. Learn what to expect, how to prepare and ways to feel more comfortable and confident before, during and after tests. What is a colonoscopy? What is a colonoscopy? Find out why you might need one, what to expect before, during and after the procedure, including bowel prep, anaesthesia, biopsies, waking up and getting your results — explained simply so you know what to expect. Read More Read More What tests might I need? Wondering what tests you might need if your doctor is investigating IBD? Find out what to expect from blood tests, poo tests, ultrasounds, MRI/MRE scans, endoscopies and biopsies — explained simply, so you know what might happen and why. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. School Learn how to support your child at school while they live with IBD. Find practical information about absences, toilet access, medications, flares, communicating with teachers, school camps, and helping your child feel supported and included. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Tests & Procedures Learn what to expect from the tests and procedures used to diagnose and monitor your child’s IBD. Find clear, practical information about blood tests, stool tests, scans, endoscopies, and other procedures, including how to prepare and how to support your child. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Living with IBD Living with IBD is about more than managing symptoms. Find practical tips for everyday life, school, friendships, activities, emotions and feeling confident with IBD. Tips for travelling with IBD Travelling with IBD might take a little extra planning, but it doesn't have to stop you from having adventures. Learn how to prepare your medicines, plan for toilets, pack an IBD travel kit, manage food and fluids, and know what to do if you become unwell while you're away. Read More Read More Do I have to tell my friends? Learn whether you have to tell your friends about having IBD, how to decide who you feel comfortable telling, and what you can say if they ask questions. Read More Read More Can I still play sport? Find out how you can stay active and enjoy sport while living with IBD, including tips for managing toilet access, hydration, medicines, flares, and competitions. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Growth & Puberty Growing up with IBD can bring extra questions and challenges. Here you’ll find information about growth, puberty, body changes and looking after yourself as you grow. More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Family & Relationships IBD can affect the whole family, from siblings and friendships to communication and family routines. Find practical guidance on supporting relationships, talking openly about IBD, managing changes at home, and helping your child feel understood and connected. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Flares Understand what an IBD flare can look like, what symptoms to watch for, and how to support your child when they’re unwell. Find practical advice for managing symptoms, knowing when to contact your IBD team, and helping your child through a flare. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Medication Medication is an important part of managing IBD. Here you’ll find information about different medicines, taking them safely, managing side effects and understanding why staying on treatment matters. Do I still need to take medication if I feel fine? Feeling great and wondering why you still need your IBD medication? Find out why treatment may still be important when you feel well, what your medicine is doing, and what to do if you forget a dose, have side effects or want to stop taking it. Read More Read More Medicines Understanding what your IBD medicines do, why you need them, and how they help keep your bowel healthy. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Mental Wellbeing Supporting your child’s emotional wellbeing while living with IBD. Learn how IBD can affect feelings, confidence, friendships, and everyday life, and find practical ways to listen, offer support, manage worries, and know when your child may need extra help. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Appointments Prepare for IBD appointments with confidence. Learn what to expect, what questions to ask, what information to bring, and how to work with your child’s IBD team to keep their care on track. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Managing day to day Practical tips to help families manage everyday life with IBD. From routines, school, activities, and medications to handling the unexpected, find simple ways to support your child while balancing the needs of the whole family. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Flares Flares can be really tough, but they're a part of IBD and things can get better. Here you'll find practical information and tips to help you manage a flare and feel more in control. Feeling tired during a flare Feeling completely exhausted during an IBD flare? Learn why fatigue can happen, how it can affect school, sport and everyday life, and practical ways to look after yourself while your body is recovering. Read More Read More How to manage stomach pain during a flare Tummy pain can be one of the hardest parts of an IBD flare. Learn practical ways to stay comfortable, including rest, gentle warmth, staying hydrated, eating when you can and knowing when to tell an adult or contact your IBD team. Read More Read More Signs I might be having a flare Learn about the signs to look out for, including changes in your poo, tummy pain, urgency, tiredness, appetite, weight, and how you’re feeling. Knowing what’s normal for you can make it easier to notice when something has changed and tell your IBD team. Read More Read More Why am I so tired? Feeling exhausted is common with IBD. Learn why IBD can make you tired, what can contribute to fatigue, and when it’s important to tell your parent, carer, or IBD team. Read More Read More What is a flare? What is an IBD flare, and what might it feel like? Learn about common flare symptoms, what can cause them, what to do when your symptoms change and when to ask for help — with simple, reassuring advice for kids and teens. Read More Read More What to eat during a flare Eating during an IBD flare can be tricky, especially when your tummy hurts or you don't feel hungry. Learn what foods may feel easier to tolerate, which foods might make symptoms worse, how to stay hydrated and why you don't need to follow a strict “IBD diet.” Read More Read More Flare survival kit A flare can make everyday things feel a little harder. Having a few useful things packed and ready can help you feel more comfortable, confident and prepared — whether you’re heading to school, going out with friends or travelling. Read More Read More What to do in a flare This guide explains what to do when you think you’re having a flare, from telling your IBD team and taking your medicines to staying hydrated, eating enough, managing school, planning for toilet urgency, and looking after your mental wellbeing. Read More Read More What if I don't make it to the toilet? From planning ahead to knowing where the nearest toilet is, there are things you can do to feel more confident when you’re out and about. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Living with IBD can bring up a lot of emotions. It’s normal to have good days and hard days. Here you’ll find information, tips and real stories to help you look after your mental wellbeing. Worry Feeling worried is a normal part of living with IBD. Learn how to handle common worries, calm your mind, and know when it’s time to ask for support. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Understanding IBD Learn what IBD is, the difference between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, what causes symptoms and flares, and how IBD can affect your body and everyday life. Could I have IBD? Learn about the common symptoms that may lead doctors to investigate Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, including tummy pain, diarrhoea, urgency, blood or mucus in poo, tiredness, appetite changes and unexplained weight loss. Read More Read More What is IBD? What is IBD? Learn about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, common IBD symptoms, flares, treatment and remission in this simple, kid-friendly guide for children and teens. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Growth & Puberty Learn how IBD can affect your child’s growth and development, including puberty, height, weight, nutrition, and body changes. Find guidance on what to monitor, when to speak with your child’s IBD team, and how to support them as they grow. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Hospital & Appointments Hospital visits and appointments can feel a little overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure what to expect. Here you’ll find practical tips for preparing, asking questions, getting through appointments and feeling more confident about your IBD care. More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Symptoms IBD can cause different symptoms, and they can change over time. Learn about common symptoms, what they might mean, how to manage them and when it’s important to let someone know how you’re feeling. More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

All Australian Resources Explore all of our Australia-specific IBD resources, including healthcare, medications, schools, support and more. Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More The Australian Healthcare System Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. Food & Nutrition Learn how IBD can affect your child’s appetite, eating habits, growth, and nutrition. Find practical guidance on supporting a balanced diet, managing food during flares, understanding nutritional needs, and navigating food-related worries. More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for parents and carers, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, flares, food, school, growth and everyday life. New Diagnosis A new IBD diagnosis can bring lots of questions and uncertainty. Find clear, practical information to help you understand your child’s diagnosis, navigate the first steps, prepare for appointments, and support your child as your family adjusts to life with IBD. My child has just been diagnosed with IBD. What happens now? Your child has just been diagnosed with IBD. Find out what happens next, from treatment and medications to tests, flares, nutrition, school, growth and emotional support. Read More Read More More to explore Family & Relationships Tests & Procedures Parent Wellbeing Managing day to day Appointments Mental Wellbeing Growth & Puberty School Food & Nutrition Medication New Diagnosis Flares Some topics on IBD Kids are written directly for kids and teens. Looking for information for your child? Explore Kids & Teens Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Stories Real experiences from kids, teens and families living with IBD. We're working on something special! Our stories section will feature real experiences from kids, teens and families living with IBD. Stay tuned! Real stories Helpful tips Different perspectives Want to share your story? Your story can help other kids and families feel less alone and show them what's possible when living with IBD. Share your story Email Join our email list Be the first to know when stories are live

All Australian Resources Explore all of our Australia-specific IBD resources, including healthcare, medications, schools, support and more. Australian IBD organisations Find Australian IBD organisations, support services and reliable information for children and families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Discover ways to connect with other families, find IBD services and join the IBD Kids Facebook Group. Read More The Australian Healthcare System Understand how the Australian healthcare system works for children with IBD, including Medicare, public and private healthcare, GP referrals, paediatric gastroenterologists, hospitals, medications, healthcare costs and finding IBD services across Australia Read More IBD and Australian schools Learn how Australian schools can support students with IBD, including toilet access, absences, fatigue, medication, exams, schoolwork, sport, excursions and reasonable adjustments for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Read More Australian IBD medications Learn about IBD medications in Australia, including mesalazine, steroids, azathioprine, biologics, the PBS, medication costs, prescriptions, hospital medicines and what parents need to know about managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in children. Read More

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Independence Being more independent with IBD can take time. Here you’ll find tips for managing your medication, appointments, symptoms and everyday life, and building confidence as you take on more responsibility. More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. New Diagnosis A new IBD diagnosis can bring lots of questions and feelings. Here you’ll find information to help you understand your diagnosis, what happens next, treatment, talking to others and getting used to life with IBD. What does my diagnosis mean? Just been diagnosed with IBD and wondering what happens next? Learn what your diagnosis means, what to expect with treatment, flares, school, food, sport and appointments — and why having IBD doesn't mean you have to stop doing the things you love. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia

Explore IBD topics for kids and teens, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, symptoms, treatment, school, friendships, food, feelings and everyday life. Sports & Activities IBD doesn’t have to stop you from being active and having fun. Find tips for staying active, managing symptoms during sport, handling tiredness and finding activities that work for you. Sport Learn how you can stay active with IBD, manage things like toilet access and tiredness, and know when it’s okay to slow down or take a break. Read More Read More More to explore Tests & Procedures New Diagnosis Independence School Hospital & Appointments Growth & Puberty Feelings & Mental Wellbeing Sports & Activities Friends & Relationships Living with IBD Food & Nutrition Medication Flares Symptoms Understanding IBD Looking for school information for parents or teachers? Need info for adults? For Parents & Carers For teachers If you're in a lot of pain, have blood in your poo, or feel very unwell, tell a grown-up and get medical help. What to do in a flare Need help now? Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help. Ask a question Ask a question Search Can't find what you're looking for? Search IBD Kids Australia