ABSTRACT
Introduction
The aim of our study was to identify opinions on training in Primary Care and expectations on the future of Pediatric Primary Care.
Methods
An online questionnaire was sent to Pediatric trainees and young Pediatricians at 22 Portuguese hospitals over the period of July 1 to August 31, 2010.
Results
Two-hundred and seventy e-mails were sent, with a response rate of 57%. Fifteen (37.5%) of those supervised by Pediatricians considered the optimal training period to be 3-6 months, while 45 (60.8%) supervised by Family Physicians considered the period to be 0-3 months (p < 0.0001). Respondents supervised by Pediatricians were largely satisfied/very satisfied with a percentage of 92.5%, versus 68.9% supervised by Family Physicians (p = 0.005). Seventy two (52.2%) stated that Pediatric surveillance in Primary Care should be performed both by Family Physicians and Pediatric consultants. Eighty eight (63.8%) respondents would like to assume the future role of Pediatrician in Primary Care.
Conclusions
Training in primary care is important to pediatricians’ training and some aspects should be improved. Investments must be made into public health integrated with primary care.
Pediatrics; Primary Health Care; Medical Education; Training