Endocrinology (hormones) in children

What is endocrinology?

Paediatric endocrinology is a medical sub-specialty dealing with the way hormones act in the body. We provide outpatient consultation and inpatient advice for children and adolescents in all regions of Tasmania. The Paediatric Endocrinology Clinic provides assessment and management of endocrinology problems in young people, including thyroid, puberty, growth, pituitary, adrenal, sex differentiation, calcium and bone mineral metabolism disorders, and endocrine tumours.

Who we care for

Children and young people with endocrinological conditions in all regions of Tasmania. Clinics are undertaken at The Royal Hobart Hospital, The Launceston General Hospital and The Northwest Regional Hospital. Access to our service is based on clinical need and priority.

How to access the endocrinology service

A referral from a paediatrician is preferred. Referrals from GPs may be accepted or redirected for assessment in the general paediatric clinic.

Learn more on the Tasmanian Health Service Outpatient Clinics website

Your primary endocrinology team

Your endocrinology team usually begins with the following people:

Child and family/caregiver

Children, young people and their families and caregivers are valued members of our health care team. You have a unique view on how your family works and the impact the condition has on your everyday life. We create management plans with your input.

Paediatric endocrinologist

The paediatric endocrinologist is an expert in conditions affecting hormones. They will review your health at each clinic appointment, make sure you receive the care and tests you need and will be involved in making decisions about your care. The paediatric endocrinologist will also be an ongoing support to your paediatrician.

Endocrinology nurse

The endocrinology nurse is your main point of contact. Depending on your needs, the nurse may provide assessment, education and support. They can help you to organise your care and assist with communication between team members.

Paediatrician

Your paediatrician is a key member of your health care team, they provide specialist medical care and look at your health holistically. Your paediatrician often takes the lead in providing a diagnosis or organises referrals for tests or assessment with other health professionals.

General practitioner (GP)

Your GP takes care of your general health needs within the community. They will receive updates from the specialist paediatric endocrinology team.

Depending on individual needs the following health professionals may also provide care:

Social worker

Social workers can provide counselling and teach skills to help you cope with problems with your health, relationships or circumstances. They can help you understand your rights and help to advocate for you.

Psychologist

A psychologist works with you to understand the impact your condition has on your life and helps you to overcome challenges, change your behaviour and improve your mental health.

Dietitian

The dietitian will assist in the assessment and management of your nutritional needs related to your condition. They will talk to you about your diet and make recommendations to support your health and growth.

Pharmacist

The pharmacist will help you understand your medication and keep your medication plan as simple, safe and helpful as possible. The pharmacist can also give support to doctors as required.

Endocrinology resources

• Growth Hormone Treatment in Children and Adolescents (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Growth Problems in Children (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Multiple Pituitary Hormone Deficiency (MPHD) (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Diabetes Insipidus (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Puberty and its Problems (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Delayed Puberty (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Management of Emergency or ‘Stress’ Situations Where Hypoglycaemia or Cortisol Deficiency Occur (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Congenital Adrenal This booklet is valuable reading for anyone with Hyperplasia (CAH) (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• A Guide for Parents - Hormones and Me Congenital Hypothyroidism (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Disorders of the Thyroid Gland in Children and Adolescents (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Hormones and Me Turner Syndrome (Australian Paediatric Endocrine Group)
• Turners Syndrome Support organisation (Turners Syndrome Association of Australia)

View additional resources from the Child Health (Paediatrics) team

Other support

Child Health and Parenting Service (CHaPS)

CHaPS work in partnership with families of children 0-5 years of age and aim to enhance the health and wellbeing of all young children in Tasmania, through supporting their parents to understand their child’s growth and development needs.

Learn more about Child Health and Parenting Services

Family Support Services

Some families may require increased support through a community organisation due to the complexity of their situation or other vulnerabilities.

Learn more on the Strong Families Safe Kids website

School

Tasmanian Government schools can access extra support or services to meet health and disability needs. It is important to discuss any individual requirements with school staff.

Learn more on the Department of Education website