Thousands of Irish children miss early childhood health checkups

Published 22h ago · Latest report 8h ago · Investigation

Affects Ireland

AI summary40s readNegative

Thousands of infants missed developmental checkups in 2025, prompting official warnings over health risks.

An investigation by the Ombudsman for Children revealed that up to 7,000 infants missed their routine developmental check-up with a public health nurse in 2025. The watchdog warned that these missed appointments leave vulnerable youngsters exposed to heightened health risks. Four formal recommendations have now been issued to the Health Service Executive to improve access to these essential screenings.

The findingsUp to 7,000 children missed their 9 to 12 month developmental assessment.
The responseThe watchdog issued four specific recommendations to the health service for better access.

Why it matters

Routine early childhood health checks allow public health nurses to monitor developmental milestones, identify potential physical or cognitive issues early, and provide vital support to families. Delays or missed appointments in the primary care system can leave developmental conditions undetected during critical formative months.

By the numbers1

7,000children missing check-ups

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What outlets agree on

The Ombudsman for Children reported that up to 7,000 infants missed their 9 to 12 month health check with a public health nurse during 2025, and issued recommendations to the Health Service Executive.

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