Child care-who cares?

Child health care is best carried out by health professionals who are motivated to do so. The nature of the physician's training, the method of financial remuneration, and the changing health needs of Canadian children have all had a strong influence on the pattern of practice of family physicians and pediatricians. Changes are needed in all three areas to meet current and future needs. The National Child Health Goals suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics should be considered as objectives for Canadian physicians and allied health professionals. A collaborative effort between parents, educators, social agencies and medical practitioners-including pediatricians and family physicians-will help achieve these goals in the 1980s.