CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION FOR PEDIATRICIANS

Recognizing the paramout importance of optimal health care for all children as a legitimate concern of pediatricians and of all society, the American Academy of Pediatrics reiterates its long-standing commitment to pediatric education in its broadest sense including undergraduate, graduate, and continuing medical education. Several approaches to assure the quality of such care, such as peer review, evidence of participation in continuing education activities, and recertification have been suggested by a variety of governmental and other nonprofessional agencies. The Academy believes strongly that such undertakings must remain the responsibility of appropriate medical organizations and that the appropriate organization in all affairs related to the health of children is the American Academy of Pediatrics. The Academy desires, therefore, to assist its members in maintaining and improving their expertise and in preparing them to demonstrate their ability to respond to the demands of a changing society. Recognizing that society will require demonstration of expertise and ability to maintain quality of health care, the Academy has assumed the initiative in developing methods for the determination of competency. Vital to the maintenance of such competency is the level of continuing education. The Academy reaffirms its determination to assist the pediatrician in maintaining and demonstrating his competence.