More pediatricians needed

Recent data released from the American Academy of Pediatrics indicates that a greater number of pediatricians may be needed to provide children with access to pediatric care. The study, published in the June issue of Pediatrics, states as more women become pediatricians and choose to balance work and family by practicing in medicine part-time, the need for full-time pediatricians may rise. AAP researchers surveyed over 3,000 members from 1993 to 2000. Five hundred residents were also surveyed prior to completing   their training in 2000. The collected data indicates that as the percentage of female pediatricians increased (from 36% to 45%), the percentage of pediatricians working part-time also showed an increase (from 11% to 15%). Fifty-eight percent of female residents indicated they would be interested in arranging a part-time position within the next five years, as compared to only 15% of male residents. Nearly all of those females said they would spend the extra time away from work addressing family needs related to children. Since the field of pediatrics has the largest percentage of women among medical specialties, part-time employment is an important issue for the pediatric workforce.The study's authors conclude that pediatric practices will benefit by better accommodating the needs of pediatricians to balance work and family goals, and future workforce projections and decisions must begin taking part-time employment rates into account. To view more information on this topic visit the American Academy of Pediatrics Web site at, www.aap.org