ACCEPTANCE OF PRESIDENCY

Abstract

Members of the Academy and guests: It is with a feeling of humble dedication that I assume the position of President of the American Academy of Pediatrics. I am grateful to you for the honor you have bestowed upon me and I am well aware of the responsibilities of the office. Following in the footsteps of our outgoing President, Jim Hughes, I shall endeavor to carry forward the progressive course he has so ably set during his term of office. Never before in the history of the Academy have we had such an opportunity for leadership as we have today. I am convinced that the Academy can and will meet every new challenge. During the next few years, we will see many changes in the practice of pediatrics. Problems of private practice have become more and more complicated. Having been in the private solo practice of pediatrics for over 30 years, I am proud to be in that, almost extinct, group of pediatricians who still make house calls. I am well aware of these problems and, as one of you, I am honored to serve as your representative in the office of President. A year ago a telegram from Surgeon General William Stewart welcomed consultation with the American Academy of Pediatrics. Since that time there has been an "open line" of communication between the Academy and governmental health agencies. During the coming year these lines of communications will be kept open to insure that the highest standards of pediatric care be established and maintained, to preserve the identification of the pediatrician in private practice, and to guarantee that he will receive proper remuneration for services rendered.