MOTHERS' OPINIONS OF THEIR PEDIATRIC CARE

Abstract

An opinion survey of mothers who take their children to pediatricians in Seattle, Washington, was carried out during the summer of 1963 in order to gain information on the mothers' concept of the pediatrician's role and how satisfied they were with the care their children were receiving. Some comparisons were made with the results of others studies where pediatricians and general practitioners were surveyed. It was found that in general Seattle mothers were very satisfied with their pediatricians and the care which their children were receiving from them. The important factors contributing to this high degree of satisfaction were discussed, as well as the areas of least satisfaction. Aspects of the doctor-patient relationship and the art and science of medicine were found to be more important in selection and satisfaction with a doctor than ancillary factors such as fees, willingness to make house calls, and time spent waiting in the office. These latter were the focus of most of the mothers' dissatisfactions. In the area of well-child care and advice, more information was desired on accident prevention, dental care, behavior problems, sleep, and toilet training. The most important reasons for obtaining well-child care were immunizations, physical examinations, and reassurance of normal development. The results also suggest a need for more emphasis on well-child checkups during the second year of life, and for continued expert health supervision during the adolescent years. It was concluded that from the mothers' point of view the modern pediatrician does and can expect to continue to play an important role in the life of the child, family, and community.