Pediatricians' Response to the Demand for School Health Programming

Objective. Because of the broad and increasing interest in school health, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) surveyed its members to determine their awareness of school health education/programs, their level of participation, their desire to participate, and their resource needs to participate more effectively. Methods. Self-administered questionnaires were mailed to a randomized representative sample of AAP members ( N = 1602). Overall response rate was 64.5%. Some responses were stratified for analysis by gender; age (>45 years or ≤45 years); practice area (urban, suburban, or rural); practice setting (solo, group, or hospital); and type of practice (general versus specialty). χ 2 Tests were used to compare responses. Results. Greater than half of the pediatricians who responded to the questionnaire were aware of school health education curriculum on risky adolescent behaviors in their community, counseling services (58%), school nursing services (63%), and screening services (71%); however, more than half were not aware of curriculum on injury/violence prevention, fitness, or whether a school health advisory council was available. Most pediatricians supported comprehensive school health education (pregnancy prevention, 82%; violence prevention, 77%; mental health, 56%). Also, respondents supported services (counseling, 76%; nutrition, 65%; screening/referral, 58%; school-based primary care, 58%). Although 22% of AAP pediatricians are currently working with local school programs, >70% wanted to become involved or more involved and needed information on how they may be able to participate. Only 25% believed they were adequately prepared. Two thirds believed school-based clinics were one of the best ways to reach underserved children and adolescents and should include preteens. Conclusion. AAP pediatricians want to become more involved with comprehensive school health programs. The ways in which they want to participate vary substantially. Most pediatricians thought they needed additional education. The AAP has developed recommendations for graduate medical education and continuing medical education for pediatricians to participate in integrated school health services.