U.S. Short on Specialized Physicians To Care for Elderly
The U.S. will need 36,000 geriatricians by 2030, up from 7,000 currently, according to the American Geriatrics Society. The geriatrician shortage coincides with a similar shortfall of general primary care physicians, whose incomes are usually lower than other specialties. Part of the issue is that insurance reimbursement is not necessarily in line with geriatricians' emphasis on preventive care and a comprehensive approach.
- "Doctors Who Specialize in Caring for Older Adults Remain Rare" (Creamer, Sacramento Bee, 6/2).