The American Academy of Pediatrics

Address: 141 Northwest Point Boulevard
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007-1098 Phone: (847) 434-4000 Fax: (847) 4348000 Website: http://www.aap.org

"The AAP is a professional membership organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical sub-specialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety, and well being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. The mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to attain optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To accomplish this, AAP shall support the professional needs of its members. 

Policy and Clinical Guidance – AAP recommendations form the basis of pediatric preventive health care. The AAP issues policy statements, clinical reports, technical reports and practice guidelines on a broad range of topics. The AAP collaborates with two other organizations to produce the annual recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents used by schools, public health agencies and pediatricians. 

Advocacy – The AAP advocates for access to health care for all children, adolescents and young adults. The AAP believes that each child should have a “medical home”—a model of health care where care is accessible, family-centered, continuous, comprehensive, coordinated, compassionate and culturally effective. The AAP works with government, communities and other national organizations to shape many child health and safety issues. 

Community-based Initiatives – The AAP works with community-based organizations on many programs and grant-funded projects. For example, the Community Access To Child Health (CATCH) Program supports pediatricians involved in community-based efforts for children. The Healthy Tomorrows Partnership for Children Program is a cooperative agreement between the federal Maternal and Child Health Bureau and the AAP, with federal grants awarded to support community-based projects that improve access to health services for mothers, infants, children and adolescents. 

Research – The AAP is home to several long-term research programs to enhance the delivery of health care to children. The Pediatric Research in Office Settings program conducts studies using a network of 1,800 pediatricians working in office-based practices and is one of the longest-running research programs in the U.S.

Member Education – Ongoing education of pediatricians is a cornerstone of promoting optimal care for children. Continuing medical education (CME) is a major activity of the AAP. Member pediatricians may participate in a variety of formats, including live, print and online activities. CME activities are searchable and available through PediaLink, the AAP’s online center for lifelong learning.  

Public Education – The AAP produces numerous patient education brochures and a series of child care books. In 2009 the AAP launched a parent-oriented Web site, HealthyChildren.org, which offers up-to-date health advice for parents and caregivers. The AAP works extensively with the media and carries out public information campaigns to ensure that timely, accurate messages and information reach families and professionals. "