The objective of this study was to know the pediatricians' and nutritionists' perception about their initial preparation and its contribution when dealing with their clientele. The methodology used was the interpretative research, and the technique used to collect the data was the semi-structured interview. The results showed that the predominant paradigm in the initial preparation of those professionals (pediatricians and nutritionists) is the Cartesian biological model, which has repercussions in their areas of performance, hindering the vision of the individual as an integral being and the understanding of the determinants of the health-disease process. It is evident the need for the graduation courses to be concerned with a pedagogical project that could overcome the Cartesian paradigm, having as a goal the preparation of a professional more committed in building a better society.
health occupations; professional-patient relations; pediatrics