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Pediatricians' response to the demand for school health programming
S Barnett1, P Duncan, K G O'Connor
1Primary Care Services Division, Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department, Austin, Texas 78702, USA.
Pediatrics
|April 2, 1999
Summary
Pediatricians are interested in school health programs but need more education and resources to participate effectively. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is developing recommendations to support their involvement in school health services.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- School Health
Background:
- Growing interest in school health programs.
- Need to understand pediatrician involvement and needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess pediatrician awareness of school health programs.
- Determine pediatrician participation levels and desires.
- Identify resource needs for effective participation.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed a randomized sample of American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) members.
- Used self-administered questionnaires.
- Analyzed responses stratified by demographics and practice characteristics using chi-squared tests.
Main Results:
- Over half of pediatricians aware of some school health services (e.g., counseling, nursing, screening).
- Strong support for comprehensive school health education and services.
- Over 70% desire increased involvement but feel unprepared and need more information.
- Two-thirds view school-based clinics as vital for underserved youth.
Conclusions:
- Pediatricians are eager to engage more in school health.
- Varied participation interests exist, with a need for additional education.
- The AAP is creating educational recommendations for integrated school health services.