Huisartsenzorg voor kinderen verschilt van die voor volwassenen.

Introduction: Children’s symptoms and sicknesses differ from those found in adults. The differences have an effect on the care given by GPs to those aged from zero to eighteen years and that given to adults. This article describes the GP care given to those aged from zero to four years, from five to twelve years and from thirteen to eighteen years and compares it to the care given to adults. Method: The data are taken from the electronic patient files of 95 GP practices participating in the Landelijk InformatieNetwerk Huisartsen (Netherlands Information Network of General Practice). Results: Children have less contact with the GP than do adults, with the exception of those aged from zero to four years. The complaints causing children to visit the GP’s surgery differ substantially according to age category and also from those affecting adults. Children from zero age to twelve years go to the doctor mainly because of infectious illnesses and skin complaints. Those aged from thirteen to eighteen go principally for oral contraceptives. Adults have the greatest number of contacts for chronic complaints such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The medication prescription pattern matches the complaints and illnesses recorded. Children are less frequently referred for specialist treatment than are adults. Conclusion: GP care given to children differs substantially from that received by adults. In addition, the care given to children shows major differences according to age category. (aut. ref.