Is a Training Program in Pediatric Abdominal Ultrasonography Necessary for Pediatricians?

Despite being an essential specialty, pediatrics in South Korea faces the threat of collapse. While the declining birth rate is an important contributor to the decrease in the pediatric population, a more critical issue lies in the dysfunctional healthcare system. Primary care pediatricians are troubled by the lack of patients, whereas tertiary care specialists are concerned about the shortage of doctors. Although the absolute number of pediatric specialists is not small, there is a scarcity of doctors willing to specialize in pediatrics. Recently, pediatric abdominal ultrasonography has been conducted in tertiary hospitals. However, there is an argument that this responsibility should be shifted to primary care pediatricians. As someone who has been performing pediatric abdominal ultrasound examinations for years, I am committed to educating pediatric specialists in this field. My aim is to contribute, albeit modestly, to improving the South Korean healthcare system.