Patients are already having trouble finding a primary care physician, and the problem will worsen in 2014 as 30 million Americans gain health insurance coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
A report released at the hearing suggests the following as solutions to the primary care shortage.
• Geographically dispersing community health centers, which increase patient access to primary care.
• Expanding the Teaching Health Center program, which provides funds that further the development of residency programs.
• Preparing students and encouraging careers in primary care.
• Increasing the number of scholarships and loan repayment options for primary care practitioners.
• Permitting allied health professionals, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, to practice at the top of their license.
More Articles on the Physician Shortage:
4 Keys to Physician Recruitment During the Shortage
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Is the Physician Shortage as Pressing as Reported?