South Australian Refugee Health Network

1. Refugee Health Infectious Diseases, Age Determination and other health problems Dr. Jill Benson Senior Medical Officer Migrant Health Service and Director, Health in Human Diversity Unit Discipline of GP, University of Adelaide

24. According to MHS Age Assessment protocol - which includes the above criteria, the age is assessed as: X-ray left wrist: Health professional’s estimate of age on the basis of maturity and relationships with other people. <11 or >13 <13 or >15 Puberty (if appropriate and with consent) : Girls - periods commenced (usually around age 11-13 yrs) Boys - noted voice change (usually around age 13-15 yrs) Assessment of child’s current developmental stage: http:// www.health.qld.gov.au/child&youth/factsheets / Assessment of child’s date of birth according to parent’s story* Height : plot on 50 th percentile and find age to match Weight : plot on 50 th percentile and find age to match Parents initial estimate of age: Child’s age according to other documentation e.g. early child hood immunisation records, passport . Date of Birth on visa: Assessed age Questions / Observations:

26. Remember, every encounter with a refugee is an opportunity to heal the past and bring hope for the future.