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The overall supply of physicians will need to increase more than it is currently projected to in order to meet this demand.
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Additionally, the aging population will affect physician supply, since one-third of all currently active doctors will be older than 65 in the next decade. Census Bureau, the nation’s population is estimated to grow by more than 10% by 2032, with those over age 65 increasing by 48%. The major factor driving demand for physicians continues to be a growing, aging population.Among specialists, the data project a shortage of between 1,900 and 12,100 medical specialists, 14,300 and 23,400 surgical specialists, and 20,600 and 39,100 other specialists, such as pathologists, neurologists, radiologists, and psychiatrists, by 2032. The projected shortage of between 46,900 and 121,900 physicians by 2032 includes both primary care (between 21,100 and 55,200) and specialty care (between 24,800 and 65,800).“Even with new ways of delivering care, America’s doctor shortage continues to remain real and significant.”Ĭonducted by the Life Science division of IHS Markit, a global information company, this fifth annual study, The Complexities of Physician Supply and Demand: Projections from 2017-2032, includes scenarios that have been refined and updated based on input from stakeholders, and new modeling that examines the impact of emerging health care delivery trends on physician shortages. These factors and others mean we will need more doctors,” said AAMC President and CEO Darrell G. “The nation’s population is growing and aging, and as we continue to address population health goals like reducing obesity and tobacco use, more Americans will live longer lives. The projected shortfall is similar to past projections and ranges from 46,900 to 121,900 physicians. The United States will see a shortage of up to nearly 122,000 physicians by 2032 as demand for physicians continues to grow faster than supply, according to new data published today by the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges). Click here to view the latest release with the most up-to-date data.
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New projections on the future needs of the physician workforce have been released.
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