Supporting fathers' involvement in children's health care

Although mothers are generally more likely than fathers to be involved with their child's health care needs, incorporating fathers is important as well. Some research suggests that factors interfering with paternal involvement include work conflicts and greater convenience for mothers accompanying the child to health care visits. One factor fathers have identified as a positive motivator is a health care provider's specific invitation or encouragement to attend the child's appointments. Fathers and mothers may cope differently with a child's illness or disability, and the type of support each parent needs may vary. Health care providers can increase their own awareness of paternal concerns and needs to best encourage paternal involvement.