Help for the physician in cases of child abuse and neglect

Child abuse and neglect is a centuries old problem. Its true extent is unknown partly because all cases are not reported. Surveys indicate many reasons for the physician's reluctance to report incidents, among them being lack of information and education. Among the sources of information available to physicians are manuals, continuing education programs, and such organizations as the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect and its Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. As an information user, provider, and reporter, the physician should participate in increasing the awareness of the problem of child abuse and neglect, and helping to determine its true dimension, in addition to his/her primary role in diagnosing the problem and treating the patient.