Can the looming physician shortage be stopped?

While the nation debates the policy and payment issues in healthcare, a quiet crisis may be brewing behind the scenes.

“Access to care,” is the buzzword used by every administrator, policy maker and payer who wants to relay a convincing viewpoint. But, behind the vague phrases, there are real issues and real numbers when it comes to patients’ access to care.

The United States faces a physician shortage estimated to be between 40,800 and 104,900 physicians by the year 20301, according to the American Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)—that may translate into a situation in which patients cannot see a doctor when they need to.

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By:  Heidi Moawad / Medical Economics / 5-22-17