German pediatrics from 1945-1999

This review summarizes some aspects of German pediatrics as it developed af ter world war II. Having lost its touch with international pediatrics regai ned its high standard during the late forties and fifties and now develops in concordance with the changing needs and the advances of pediatrics in a highly industrialized nation. As in other countries, the practice and struc ture of pediatrics have been influenced by changes in social attitudes and expectations, and by economic restrictions. National specifics are the high number of practicing pediatric population and emphasis on a highly structu red and formalized preventive care program under a public health plan. The need for critical evaluation of this program is emphasized as is the need f or better communication among subspecialties.