Advocacy in pediatric neurosurgery: Results from a 2017 survey of the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons

Melissa LoPresti, Sandi Lam, Katie Orrico, Samuel R. Browd, Richard G. Ellenbogen, Jonathan Martin*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE Pediatric neurosurgeons are unswerving advocates for public health-related issues in children, with most providers participating in local, regional, national, or international efforts. Collective advocacy efforts by organized pediatric neurosurgeons have not been undertaken to date. METHODS A 10-item survey was administered to members of the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons (ASPN) in order to evaluate attitudes and opinions regarding the development of a formal advocacy effort by the organization. RESULTS Seventy-nine of 178 registered members of the ASPN (44.38%) participated in the survey. Participants were 82.61% male, with age, stage of career, and practice type varied. Although there was unequivocal support for participation in organized advocacy, respondents were divided on methods and topics for advocacy. In this survey, the ASPN membership prioritized public health and clinical issues over economic issues that affected children. CONCLUSIONS Most respondents favored the drafting of position statements on key issues and partnerships with larger organizations to pursue an advocacy agenda. The survey provides data regarding pediatric neurosurgeons' attitudes that may assist with the design of a successful advocacy program.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)338-342
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics
Volume24
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2019

Keywords

  • ASPN
  • Advocacy
  • American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons
  • Pediatric neurosurgery
  • Survey

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Surgery
  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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