An analysis of the need for pediatric surgeons in the United States

A questionnaire study covering all major population areas in the United States indicated that pediatric surgeons and potentially capable hospitals are already well-distributed throughout the country. The estimation of need for pediatric surgeons based on the area questionnaires is close to the present number of surgeons. A computer analysis was made to project numbers of pediatric surgeons per unit population to the year 2000 with differing levels of trainee output. The study indicates that 14-15 training programs are sufficient to allow for slow, modest growth of the specialty if current population trends continue.