Abstract
The shortage of pediatricians has been identified as one of the largest social problems in Japan. This study aimed to compare the assumed ideal nighttime working conditions of pediatric hospitalists in Japan with the actual current situation. By using available data on the age-related numbers of pediatricians in Japan, we described the ideal working conditions for pediatric hospitalists in Japan. The ideal situation was then compared with the existing actual working conditions. Compared with the assumed ideal condition, current pediatric hospitalists are working in many hospitals with a few colleagues. To solve the current supply-demand mismatch on medical care for children during night, an involvement of non-pediatric physicians in the medical care of children during the night is indispensable. Also, parents in Japan need to know the limitations relating to the available capacity of pediatricians, and accept that their children can be cared for adequately by non-pediatric physicians, who have been trained to provide primary medical care to children.
Highlights
The shortage of pediatricians has been identified as one of the largest social problems in Japan [1] [2], but an effective solution has not been provided
Materials and Methods By using currently available recent data on the age-related numbers of pediatricians in Japan [5], and taking into consideration acceptable overnight working conditions as well as the recommendations of JPS, we described the ideal working conditions for pediatric hospitalists in Japan
To summarize the available medical services during night provided by pediatric hospitalists, several assumptions were made
Summary
The shortage of pediatricians has been identified as one of the largest social problems in Japan [1] [2], but an effective solution has not been provided. There are ongoing frustrations from parents and pediatricians about this issue; pediatricians often claim that they are busy, and parents wish for their children to be cared for by pediatricians. Local government officials, especially mayors, provide a certain degree of free care for children as a way to ensure support from their constituents. Both of these situations have increased demand for care and highlighted issues relating to the lack of pediatricians. To secure adequate working conditions for pediatricians, the Japan Pediatric
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
