The Fanny Pack: No Ifs, Ands, or Buts

Although the white coat is central to the practice of adult medicine, pediatricians often shed it to avoid creating negative associations and provoking fear in children. In our pediatric dermatology practice, the fanny pack (FP) has replaced many of the functional elements of the white coat. The FP is a kid-friendly way to readily carry key medical supplies from one patient encounter to the next. It is more hygienic, light weight, and affordable than traditional doctor's bags and white coats. In this article we outline the benefits of the FP, which include storage, ergonomics, efficiency, cleanliness, kid-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness.