Abstract
From May through July, 1973, 283 pediatricians representing 13 subspecialties as well as general pediatrics answered a questionnaire which attempted to obtain (1) their recommended apportionment of new funds for improving child health in the U.S. between care, research and education, and (2) their degree of emphasis on various subdivisions of these major categories of needs. 90% of the respondents were primarily in academic pediatrics and 10% in private practice. The suggested distribution of the hypothetical new funds averaged 43% for care, 32% for research and 25% for education. Under care, the translation of knowledge into practice, and research concerning care delivery were rated highest and screening techniques lowest. Under research, investigation of the relation between diseases affecting children and those affecting adults was considered most important, perinatology next and cardiopulmonary diseases last. Under education, continuing education and training teachers were considered most important in the use of new funds and training clinical specialists least vital. Although a broad view of needs for improving the health of children was requested, most specialists considered their own field most worthy of support.
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Mortimer, E., Cook, C. NATIONAL PRIORITIES FOR IMPROVING CHILD HEALTH: RESULTS OF A QUESTIONNAIRE. Pediatr Res 8, 472–518 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197404000-00791
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197404000-00791