The 1997 Balanced Budget Act capped the number of residency slots funded by Medicare. These caps remain in place and have created a significant bottleneck in training new doctors, contributing to the current shortage.
This video discusses the projected physician shortage in the US, estimated to reach 187,130 doctors by 2037. It explores the causes, including an aging population and physician workforce, limitations in medical training slots, and the rising costs of medical education. The video also outlines the consequences for patients, such as longer wait times and reduced access to care, particularly in rural areas. Finally, it proposes potential solutions, including expanding residency programs, making medical education more affordable, leveraging international medical graduates, and utilizing technology.