Child Psychiatry Practice Patterns in Ontario

Objectives: To examine the demographics, training, distribution, venues of practice, remuneration patterns, and professional affiliations of child psychiatrists in Ontario. Method: In July 1997, questionnaires were sent to 229 Ontario psychiatrists. A second mailing was sent to nonresponders in the fall of 1997. The overall response rate was 66.8%. Results: Compared with other research regarding the ratio of child psychiatrists to children with mental health problems, Ontario fares relatively well (1:6148). Generally, Ontario child psychiatrists report having received formalized training in the speciality. Child psychiatrists are disproportionately concentrated in Toronto and in midsize cities with medical schools compared with rural regions. Outreach services to smaller communities are provided by 30% of child psychiatrists, but it is not clear whether the services are sufficient and equitably available. Approximately 50% of current psychiatrists will be aged 65 years or older in 15 year