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Pediatric cardiology in the 1990s
R G Williams1, T L Kennedy, J H Moller
1Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center 90024-1743.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology
|March 15, 1994
Summary
Pediatric cardiologists focus on patient care, with most time spent on clinical activities. While professional satisfaction is high, income and free time remain areas for improvement in this subspecialty.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Subspecialties
- Physician Training
Background:
- Previous surveys in 1967 and 1980 showed pediatric cardiology centered in academic medicine.
- Manpower growth was close to predicted needs in earlier assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between subspecialty training, motivations, and satisfaction among pediatric cardiologists.
- To understand current practice characteristics in pediatric cardiology.
Main Methods:
- A 1991 questionnaire was sent to 844 active board-certified pediatric cardiologists.
- An anonymous response rate of 68% (570 respondents) was achieved.
Main Results:
- Subspecialty training averaged 31 months, with 77% focused on clinical training.
- Respondents dedicated 89% of professional hours to subspecialty activities, 63% to clinical care.
- High professional satisfaction reported in challenge, resources, security, and autonomy; lower in income and free time.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric cardiology is a patient care-focused subspecialty utilizing diagnostic and interventional techniques.
- Professional activities differ based on practice location.
- Physicians with significant research training remain a minority within the field.