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Vice presidential election 1998: Candidates detail their credentials for pediatric leadership

In the rapidly changing health care situation in the United States, how do you feel you could lead pediatrics into the future in dealing with state and federal governments, insurance companies, business coalitions, and the general public?

Carden Johnston, M.D.

Although health care delivery systems are rapidly changing, princples of health care for children aren't. For children to have the chance to attain their optimal physical, mental, and social health, all health care plans must assure that children have timely access to pediatricians, whether the need is for a generalist, a medical subspecialist, or a surgical specialist.

Every child must have access to pediatric services reimbursed at adequate rates. With satisfactory reimbursement, under-utilization — common among our pediatric population — can be minimized. Without adequate reimbursement, barriers to services devised, which impede optimal and even satisfactory care.

Children with special needs will become an increasing proportion of our pediatric practices. Risk adjustment ratios should be placed into health plans so those special children obtain the attention and care they deserve. Like all children, they require a medical home that is continuous, comprehensive, and compassionate, utilizing a range of community resources in a culturally sensitive environment. Pediatric medical and surgical care must be accessible whenever and wherever required by the special needs child.