The role of the physician in Israel's maternal child health clinics: surveys of professional and parental perceptions.

Background: Preventative health services are a pediatric health care cornerstone, which strives to promote health and prevent illness and injury. In Israel, Maternal Child Health Clinics (MCHC) provide these well child services for ages 0-6 years. MCHC care includes physician visits; however, the physician's role is not well defined.