By the end of 2024, the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of up to 64,000 physicians.
Here are the key statistics from the article:
- Physician Shortage
- By the end of 2024, the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of up to 64,000 physicians.
- By 2036, this deficit could grow to as many as 86,000 physicians.
- About 20% of clinical physicians are aged 65 or older, nearing retirement.
- Physician Turnover
- 35% of surveyed physicians are likely to leave their current roles in the next five years.
- Of those likely to leave:
- 60% plan to leave clinical practice entirely.
- Among those aged 54–64, 59% cite early retirement or exiting care delivery as their next step.
- Among those under 54, 37% consider early retirement or exiting care delivery.
- Interest in Changing Jobs
- 58% of respondents report an increased desire to change jobs in the past year (up from 43% in the prior survey).
- 72% of physicians are approached about alternative job offers at least monthly.
- 50% are approached about alternative job offers weekly.
- Reasons for Leaving
- 69% cite higher remuneration as a factor.
- 69% cite family needs and competing life demands.
- 66% mention the demanding nature of their work.
- 65% point to the emotional toll of their roles.
- 61% reference the physical toll of their roles.
- Workload and Well-being
- 52% of those working more than 60 hours weekly report burnout.
- 66% of those dissatisfied with their schedules report burnout.
- 32% of those unhappy with their schedules are likely to leave in the next year, compared to 23% of those working more than 60 hours.
- Work Flexibility
- 87% say the ability to take time off is important.
- 77% value finding coverage when needed.
- 69% highlight the importance of working specific hours.
- 38% indicate the ability to work remotely is important.
- Inclusion in Decision Making
- Over 60% of respondents expect to be consulted or have a vote on major decisions.
- Delegation of Tasks
- Physicians report spending nearly 20% of their clinical time on tasks that could be delegated.
- 42% of delegable tasks could be handled by advanced practice professionals (hospital-based physicians report the highest percentage).