STANDARDS of American medical practice are the highest in the world. Deficiencies presently existing may best be improved by voluntary efforts on the part of the medical profession. One of the obvious problems is the betterment of our public relations. Physicians must spend more time in giving to the public actual facts concerning medical care and in cooperating with lay groups whose activities influence public opinion. The help of every member of the Academy is needed in his home community for intelligent planning and for progress in the solution of this problem.
Our Committee on Public Relations, under the capable chairmanship of Dr. O. L. Stringfield, feels strongly that our efforts must begin with the individual Academy member. The latter can best make his influence felt through active participation in the public relations programs sponsored by the local, county, state and national medical organizations of which he is a member. At a meeting of Dr. Stringfield's Committee in Toronto, on October 23rd, it was decided that the Academy could most effectively contribute to improved public relations by integrating its activities with those of organized medicine as a whole. Television, radio and the press will be utilized as media of expression, in an effort to remove some of the current distrust and misinformation commonly associated with our public contacts. It is suggested that you address any recommendations, criticism or suggestions to a member of this Committee. We, as pediatricians, have an obligation and a responsibility to assume a more active role in our dealings with the public.