Pediatricians' knowledge and attitudes concerning diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders

Article Abstract:

A survey of 380 pediatricians found that two-thirds enjoyed caring for patients with attention deficit disorder or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD), and only 4% disliked having such patients. However, 40% felt that the time required to treat ADD/ADHD patients was a problem and 17% felt they were not adequately reimbursed. Twenty-one percent would like to see better teacher education and involvement and 15% wanted better parent education resources. Virtually all respondents treated ADD/ADHD patients with methylphenidate, 51% treated with pemoline, and 27% with amphetamines. Fifty-seven percent reported prescribing daily medication, 46% exempted weekends, and 61% prescribed medication only during the school year and not during vacation. Parents often had misconceptions about ADD/ADHD and ADD/ADHD medication, for example, that ADD/ADHD was due to poor parenting, diet, or boredom at school or that the medication was harmful or that it would cure ADD/ADHD.

Care and treatment, Methods, Time management, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

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Varicella Immunization Practices and the Factors That Influence Them

Article Abstract:

Use of the varicella vaccine may increase if physicians are informed of the complications that can result from chickenpox in children. Researchers surveyed 172 physicians and found that 74% administer the vaccine to some or all susceptible children aged 12 or older, and 57-63% administer it to younger children. Physicians who did not recommend vaccination reported that chickenpox was "normal," that routine immunization may increase outbreaks in adults, and that the vaccine was not necessary. Many, when provided information about severe varicella infection in children, reported that they would be more likely to offer the vaccine.

United States, Usage, Prevention, Chickenpox vaccine, Chickenpox vaccines, Chickenpox

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A national survey to understand why physicians defer childhood immunizations

Article Abstract:

Physicians' beliefs may influence their recommendations about childhood vaccinations, and may affect the success of immunization programs. Researchers interviewed 1,241 physicians who treat children about vaccinations in various clinical scenarios. When treating a child for illness rather than during a well-child visit, 47% of physicians were less likely to administer vaccinations that were due. About 11% of physicians were unlikely to give three vaccinations simultaneously even when indicated. These practices conflict with Public Health Service vaccination guidelines.

Surveys

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