Vision of Pediatrics 2020: The AAP's Role in Maintaining Focus and Creating the Future

Abstract

Kudos to the authors of the special articles in this issue of Pediatrics regarding the future of pediatrics and those who have reported survey results on the roles and scope of practice.1,2 Their unprecedented analyses of sentinel trends and needs that affect child health and the profession of pediatrics are insightful, and their message is clear: with us or without us, change is proceeding with increasing frequency and speed. These articles constitute a “call to action” for pediatrics to use its knowledge and resources to actively and effectively lead change and create the future. To this end, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), through our Agenda for Children and the Vision of Pediatrics 2020 project, is aligning our strategic priorities with the megatrends presented and actively working to provide our members with the skills and resources necessary to thrive in the future. Most recently, the academy's strategic priorities have focused on the megatrends related to health system reform, reducing health disparities, early brain and child development, mental health, and children … Address correspondence to Marion Burton, MD, Clinical Affairs, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, 15 Medical Park, Suite 300, Columbia, SC 29203. E-mail: marion.burton{at}uscmed.sc.edu