In 2011 16.7 million children lived in food-insecure households, about 35% more than 2007 levels, though only 1.1% of U.S. children, or 845,000, saw reduced food intake or disrupted eating patterns at some point during the year, and most cases were not chronic.
Following graduation from medical school, primary care pediatricians complete three years of education in an accredited pediatric residency program. Pediatric residency training emphasizes care of the whole infant, child, adolescent, and young adult.
Specifically, a primary care doctor can: 1  Ensure you get recommended medical screenings and health risk assessments. 2  Provide preventive care and teach healthy lifestyle choices. 3  Help you get referrals to medical specialists when necessary. 4  Evaluate the urgency of your medical problems and direct you to the best place for care.