March 2015 research from the Association of American Medical Colleges confirms that the projected physician shortage is “real and significant.”1 The AAMC projects a shortage between 46,000-90,000 physicians by 2025.
More doctors are needed to address chronic health conditions of the aging population. Shortages of some medical practice specialties — occupational physicians — may have more severe shortages. Fewer occupational docs with special talents such as knowing the proper return-to-work restrictions may drive up workers’ compensation (WC) costs. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is drawing more users into the medical system. High ACA deductibles may drive to people to falsely use the WC system. Conditions that impact physician shortages, such as baby boomer retirements, also impact the occupational safety and health workforce. NIOSH predicted a shortage of OSH pros back in 2011.2 Lack of seasoned pros may result in higher workplace injury and illness rates.