The ChiLDREN Network supports the discovery of new diagnostics, etiologies and treatment options for children with liver disease, and those who undergo liver transplantation. The network also supports training for the next generation of investigators of pediatric liver diseases.[107] During a Strategic Planning Meeting held in 2000 the AASLD Governing Board set out to codify a body of check details knowledge that would establish criteria to develop hepatology as a focused, distinct discipline within the medical subspecialty of gastroenterology and to identify

the special training that individuals involved in “advanced” hepatology and liver transplantation required. The goal was to ensure recognition of individuals who had acquired the training, expertise, and skills to be considered a “hepatologist.” [108] Up to that time the discipline of hepatology was largely viewed as a focused research activity. However, the clinical profile was rapidly expanding, driven by the growth

of liver transplantation programs, the discovery of the hepatitis C virus, and the nascent epidemic of obesity-related Transferase inhibitor liver disease. As a member of the AASLD Governing Board at that time (Fig. 7), I was excited about the concept and the opportunity for the development of Advanced/Transplant Hepatology as a subdiscipline of gastroenterology. Equally exciting, as the first pediatrician to be elected president of the AASLD, I had a unique RG7420 research buy perspective and thus envisioned the impact on those of us who were predominantly involved in the care of children and adolescents with liver disease. Around that time the leadership of NASPGHAN separately addressed the question as to whether special certification or qualifications in Pediatric Hepatology were necessary within the field of Pediatric Gastroenterology.[109] Data generated from a NASPGHAN workforce survey

estimated that there were approximately 300 practitioners of Pediatric Hepatology. The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) had specific qualifications for the designation of pediatric liver transplant physicians, which included fellowship training in Pediatric Gastroenterology with a minimum exposure of clinical care of 10 pediatric patients undergoing liver transplant. Furthermore, it was required that the trainee provide ongoing care for at least 20 children who have undergone liver transplantation, under the guidance of a qualified liver transplant physician and surgeon. The problem, therefore, for individuals interested in training in the field or pursuing careers focusing on Pediatric Hepatology was the need to find appropriate mentors and training programs. The NASPGHAN leadership recognized the demand for validated practitioners and the need for increased recognition for individuals who achieved a specified level of competence in the field.