Motivating Pediatricians to Become Involved in
School Health

H. THE BUSINESS OF SCHOOL HEALTH

SLIDE I-19

1. Defining Parameters of Involvement

Pediatricians should consider their own goals for becoming involved in school health. Pediatricians who are parents might become involved to gain a better sense of how the school system is serving their child. Other pediatricians might simply want to improve access to health services within their community, while others may see involvement in schools as an opportunity for additional income or expansion of their practice.

The time commitment related to becoming involved in school health should be considered in the light of other responsibilities such as

• Office, practice, and academic responsibilities
• Family commitments
• Leisure time
• Commitments to other community activities

It is important that the pediatrician clearly define his or her role and expectations before becoming involved.

• Will you be a consultant, interventionist, or other participant?
• What can the school expect from you in terms of services and accessibility?
• How much time do you have to devote to this endeavor?
• What does your training or teaching support?
• What difference can you make for the school and its students?

To avoid frustration, the pediatrician should consider communication issues before becoming formally involved.

• Will you interface most frequently with administrators, teachers, parents or PTA members, students, or other community members?
• Will you be available by telephone, fax, letter, or electronic mail?
• Will there be specific times you will or will not be available?
• Will you be able to attend scheduled meetings to give and receive feedback?
• Will you prepare periodic reports for school staff and parents?

SLIDE I-20

2. Preparing an Action Plan

After answering the foregoing questions, the pediatrician is prepared to approach the school to develop a formal relationship. A written action plan or agreement should be developed, outlining specific outcomes or goals. If appropriate, consent forms for teachers, students, and parents or other materials to facilitate the pediatrician's involvement should be developed.

Points to remember when negotiating an agreement with the school or school district include the following.

• The agreement or contract should clearly identify the scope of involvement and role of the pediatrician.
• Formal business language should be used; review by a lawyer is important to ensure that the agreement is binding and that liability issues are addressed.
• Not all pediatrician involvement in schools must be done on a volunteer basis. Reimbursement issues should be addressed honestly, and both sides should be prepared to negotiate. Pediatricians should seek information from colleagues already involved with schools on appropriate rates and salaries.
• Miscellaneous issues, such as the resources that will be available to the pediatrician or who will resolve conflict if it arises, should be addressed as appropriate.

A sample contract is included with this kit.