ABSTRACT
Introduction ’e pediatric neurologist functions as both a generalist and a specialist and may be one of several physicians involved in the case management and life care plan of a child with serious or chronic disease. ’ere is a manpower shortage in this specialty, as there is in other pediatric “cognitive specialties” (e.g., pediatric nephrology, rheumatology). ’is shortage is well documented in a study conducted through the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business at the request of the Child Neurology Society. ’ere are not enough pediatric neurologists to care for every child with a neurological problem, yet a pediatric neurologist is often required for diagnosis, management, counseling, and other forms of input. In these cases, the pediatric neurologist tends to become the “principal physician”—a specialist who serves as the primary physician for patients
Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 123 Origins of the Discipline of Pediatric Neurology ..................................................................... 124 ’e Process of Becoming a Pediatric Neurologist ......................................................................125 ’e Breadth and Depth of Pediatric Neurology ....................................................................... 126 Medical Issues Confronted by a Pediatric Neurologist ............................................................. 127 ’e Role of Clinical Practice Guidelines in Pediatric Neurology and in Life Care Planning ..... 128 Ethical Issues Confronted by the Pediatric Neurologist ............................................................ 130 ’e Role of the Pediatric Neurologist ...................................................................................... 130 References ................................................................................................................................131
