Abstract
Some pediatric rheumatologists in the West may take for granted that pediatric rheumatology (PR) is a recognized subspecialty. Yet pediatric rheumatology has been accepted as a subspecialty in the United States only since 1990. There are still countries where many pediatric subspecialties are not given official recognition and support, including PR. This lack of recognition delays and impedes the development of PR, appropriate musculoskeletal and rheumatic teaching in medical schools, and optimal diagnosis and treatment for children with these illnesses. In the opinion of editorial staff, each country where pediatric rheumatology is reasonably well developed as a subspecialty has an obligation to help our pediatric rheumatologists elsewhere gain recognition, support, and respect. The Pediatric Rheumatology European Society (PReS) and the Pediatric Rheumatology International Trial Organization (PRINTO) have been leaders in this effort, but in many countries, pediatric rheumatology is still not recognized. This editorial offers rationales and justifications for medical and governmental entities accrediting pediatric rheumatology as a separate subspecialty that may aid in these efforts.
Highlights
I am writing to you in support of an application of new pediatric rheumatologists in your country to have their subspecialty accredited by your governmental agency or medical council and to receive governmental and university support
The best prevalence figures are that 1–4/1000 children and adolescents have chronic arthritis due to juvenile idiopathic arthritis
At a current population of 10 million, from all available evidence, your country needs a minimum of 6 pediatric rheumatologists to perform the necessary clinical duties in the medical schools and medical centers and would need an additional 6 to provide an acceptable level of teaching and research in your medical colleges, with at least one per medical college
Summary
Musculoskeletal pain in primary pediatric care: analysis of 1000 consecutive general pediatric clinic visits. 4. Foster H, Kay LJ, Friswell M, Coady D, Myers A: Musculoskeletal screening examination (pGALS) for school-age children based on the adult GALSscreen. 5. Freedman KB, Bernstein J: The adequacy of medical school education in musculoskeletal medicine. 6. Dicaprio MR, Covey A, Bernstein J: Curriculum requirements for Musculoskeletal medicine in American medical schools.
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