Demand for doctors is far outstripping supply. The United States will face a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, according to projections out this month from the Association of American Medical Colleges.
Already, many Americans are struggling to get the care they need. About 35% of patients had trouble finding a doctor in the past several years, according to a 2019 survey. That’s up from 25% in 2015. This physician shortage disproportionately affects Americans in rural and historically neglected urban areas.
Private interests, especially those with an interest in improving access to health care, should consider how they can help narrow the doctor shortage.
