Continuity of pediatrician: New support for an old shibboleth

An experimental design permitted comparison of ambulatory pediatric care in a traditional comprehensive clinic with similar care in an experimental clinic emphasizing continuity of physician. The results of a survey of all staff and a sample of patients' mothers indicated that provision of pediatrician continuity yields higher staff and client satisfaction, better patient-practitioner relationships, and greater efficiency. It is suggested that such an arrangement be made a requirement in pediatric clinic programs. Implications of the findings for further research are discussed.