College plans help for children in war zones

BMJ 1999;318:281 ( 30 January )

News

College plans help for children in war zones

Kamran Abbasi , BMJ
The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

A register of paediatricians willing to work as volunteers in war zones could improve the health of children in such areas,said speakers at the international task force conference of theRoyal College of Paediatrics and Child Health in London lastweek.

The register would, however, be only a first step, and a more cohesive strategy needs to be developed. An effective plan wouldhave to involve the medical colleges, non-governmental organisations,donors, and the armedforces.

Professor David Baum, president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, emphasised the importance of a comprehensivebut cautious approach: "The responsibilities of the college areto do with the delivery of the best health care for children inthis country, and we have taken this work [in war zones] on followingdemand from the membership. While the work is important, we shouldnot be consumed bythis."

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