Commentary
The primary care workforce: a critical element in mending the fractured US health care system
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Correspondence: Roberto Cardarelli rcardare@hsc.unt.edu
University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Primary Care Research Institute, 855 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth, TX, USA
Osteopathic Medicine and Primary Care 2009, 3:11 doi:10.1186/1750-4732-3-11
Published: 16 October 2009Abstract
A focus on the primary care workforce is critical when discussing plans to address the fractured United States health care system. However, we must first address the primary care physician shortage crisis when planning for health care reform which focuses on increasing access to the US population. Initial strategies may include improving reimbursement rates for primary care services, incentivizing medical schools in making primary care training a priority, and developing robust loan-forgiveness programs for those who enter and work in primary care specialties. Planning with congressional representatives about these elements will better ensure sustainable health reform efforts are implemented.