Doctor shortage could hit 125,000
One thing many people in healthcare seem to agree on is that there will be a physician shortage. In fact, some would argue it is already underway. New healthcare laws are expected to make the problem worse.
A recent article in the Los Angeles Times describes many contributing factors that are not helpful. Among them, a growing population that is expected to hit 350 million by 2025. Many reputable agencies are voicing concerns. The article points out:
The Association of American Medical Colleges has warned of a deficiency of up to 125,000 doctors by 2025. And it isn't the only group voicing concerns. The Health Resources and Services Administration, a federal agency that works to improve healthcare access for the uninsured, has projected that the supply of primary-care physicians will be adequate through 2020, at which point there will be a deficit of 65,560 physicians. The American Academy of Family Physicians estimates the need for almost 149,000 extra doctors by that year.
We will need to change the way we treat and care for patients to combat this problem. The way we deliver care will need to change with the times. Telemedicine will need to come into play for sure. Patients need to have better, easier access via the Internet to their doctors and this in turn gives doctors more time to treat others with more critical needs. This needs to happen sooner rather than later.
What are you doing that is helping? Let us know and share your ideas with others. Post your comments below.
Kester Freeman blogs regularly at Action for Better Healthcare.
