Pediatric manpower meeds in the area of developmental disorders and other chronic handicapping conditions

The purpose of this study was to determine the availability of and need for pediatricians specifically trained in the diagnosis and care of children with developmental disorders and/or other chronic handicapping conditions. Questionnaires were sent to department chairmen of 260 pediatric residency programs. Results of the survey are presented. On the basis of 73% responses, it is concluded that a need for pediatricians trained in developmental disorders and/or other chronic handicapping conditions exists. There were at the time of the study 32 open positions for pediatricians with such training. Eighty-four pediatric residents were interested in a fellowship and an additional 79 were considering it.