Hospitals face shortage of pediatric specialists

COLUMBUS (AP) — A shortage of pediatric specialists at U.S. children’s hospitals is frustrating parents who sometimes wait months to get medical appointments.

Doctors who specialize in neurology, development and behavioral problems, diabetes, lung disease and intestinal disorders are in the highest demand.

Ohio is home to six children’s hospitals, meaning most specialists are within a couple of hours’ drive for parents. But the situation isn’t ideal, especially for parents seeking treatment for complicated or rare illnesses.

Katie and Doug Leedy of suburban Columbus went to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where surgery was an option for their baby, Owen, who had a problem that led to pervasive and potentially deadly seizures.

The Leedys spent three weeks in Cincinnati in 2008 and 2009. Two neurologists who played a key role in Owen’s procedure recently were recruited to Columbus.