Serious Gaps in Health Care Quality for America's Children

A study from the RAND corporation published in this week's NEJM finds that children in the United States fail to get recommended health care more than half of the time, according to a new study that is the largest and most comprehensive examination of health care quality for America’s children. They are not receiving recommended preventive care and screening services, such as regular weight and measurement checks to ensure that they are growing properly and not at risk for obesity; nor are they receiving standard care for conditions such as asthma and diarrhea. While the study lays the fault at pediatrician's doors there is liuttle said about the failure of families toi seek care, or follow the advice given.