[The limit of pediatric age in primary health care. A problem to be solved]

The true definition of the term Pediatrics, implies comprehensive care up to the end of adolescence; in practice, however, treatment is usually only available up to the age of seven. In this study, the medical records of children born between 1976 and 1983 were examined with respect to the four areas of General Practice covered by a pediatrician. The characteristics of this conurbation and the nature of medical advice sought were also studied. A survey of the situation in the remainder of the country was also carried out by means of telephone conversations with pediatricians nationwide. Of the 519 children considered, 150 did not consult their doctor during 1990. Those that did seek medical attention did so on 802 occasions, which represents 3.6% of all consultations by general practitioners. However, it would have amounted to 25.3% of the visits to pediatricians. Raising the age limit of pediatric patients, as an isolated measure, would therefore overload pediatric offices and thus lead to a lower standard of medical care. Such a measure should not be implemented hastily.