100th Periodic Survey compares pediatricians’ concerns in 1987 with 2018
from AAP Research
Much has changed in pediatrics over the last 30 years, but many of the core experiences
of being a pediatrician remain the same, according to new data from the AAP Periodic
To commemorate the 100th Periodic Survey, questions from the first two surveys in
1987 were posed to pediatricians in 2018. Themes included career satisfaction, communication
with patients, continuity of care and cost considerations.
Overall, large majorities of pediatricians reported being satisfied with their careers
in both 1987 (84%) and in 2018 (89%).
In addition, the issues on pediatricians’ minds were similar in 1987 and 2018. The
leading issues of concern in pediatric practice in both years (encountered “sometimes”
or “always”) included costs affecting treatment choice, families postponing care due
to cost, parents not seeking appropriate preventive care and inefficient business
management (see figure). The least commonly reported concerns were an inadequate patient
base and poor patient-physician communication.
At the same time, pediatricians and patient demographics have changed over the last
three decades. In 1987, 28% of AAP Fellows were women compared to 67% in 2018.
In addition, pediatricians today provide care for a much larger portion of U.S. children
than in 1987. With expansions in Medicaid and the creation of the Children’s Health
Insurance Program, they also are more likely to see publicly insured children.
More pediatricians in 2018 than in 1987 reported concerns. The issue showing the largest
increase is perceived inability to provide continuity of care, with 30% reporting
in 1987 compared to 53% in 2018.
Periodic Survey #100 was mailed to approximately 1,600 AAP members in 2018, with a
response rate of 49%. Periodic Surveys #1 and #2 were mailed to approximately 1,000
AAP members in 1987; response rates were 72% and 80%, respectively.