02 Oct How Can Locum Tenens Physicians Address the Shortage of Internal Medicine Doctors?
The United States is facing a physician shortage, and locum tenens physicians can help address this healthcare need. This deficit includes a potential and significant shortage of general internal medicine (GIM) physicians. A study from the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research found that the number of residents choosing GIM careers has declined by more than 50 percent over the past decade. This could lead to a shortage of GIM physicians by 2032.
The shortage of internal medicine doctors parallels the overall physician shortage in the US, which could reach 86,000 physicians by 2036 according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). This total includes a shortage of more than 40,000 primary care physicians and 10,000 to 20,000 surgical specialists.
The Growing Need for Specialized Care
Why is this significant? As the general population ages, GIM physicians become significantly relevant in the healthcare landscape, given their work with patients aged 50 and older who often require medications and procedures affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints, and the digestive, respiratory, and vascular systems.
Additionally, as people age, they often encounter a range of health issues—from chronic diseases to complex medical conditions. This means hospitals require more specialized staff to address these challenges effectively. Internal medicine specialists are crucial because they provide comprehensive care for older adults. When these doctors are unavailable due to shortages, vacations, illness, or other reasons, locum tenens physicians can step in, ensuring no patient is left behind.
The aging population in many countries has led to an increased demand for healthcare services, including those provided by internal medicine specialists. This has created opportunities for locum tenens physicians to step in and help fill staffing gaps. With their flexibility and ability to adapt to different healthcare settings, locum tenens physicians have become indispensable in maintaining the quality of care for patient
Diverse Expertise Across Specialties
In addition to internal medicine, locum tenens providers bring a wealth of expertise from various specialties, especially those that serve the aging population. Whether it’s cardiology, geriatrics, or even primary care, locums can help fill the gaps in service. As needs arise, hospitals can tailor their staffing to meet the specific needs of their patient populations. This means more efficient healthcare delivery and improved patient outcomes for older adults who will make up the majority of the patient ranks in the next eight to 10 years..
Cost-Effective Staffing Solution
Hospitals and healthcare campuses are increasingly turning to locum tenens physicians to maintain their staffing levels and ensure that patients have access to the care they need. By hiring temporary physicians, healthcare facilities can continue to provide essential services while actively working to recruit permanent medical staff.
Hiring locum tenens physicians can also be a cost-effective strategy for hospitals. Instead of committing to long-term hires, facilities can bring in temporary staff as needed. This flexibility helps manage budgets without sacrificing patient care. It’s like having a reliable safety net—ensuring that there’s always someone available when needed most.
Locum Tenens Physicians: The Future of Healthcare Staffing
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, embracing locum tenens physicians isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity for better patient outcomes and a healthier, happier community. As the aging population grows, the need for locum tenens physicians specializing in internal medicine and other specialties becomes clearer. These adaptable healthcare providers play a pivotal role in filling gaps, managing patient care, and reducing burnout among permanent staff, and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future.
By partnering with locum tenens, hospitals can continue to deliver high-quality care to all patients, especially those who need it most. Suppose you’re an internal medicine specialist considering a career as a locum tenens physician. In that case, it’s a path worth exploring to contribute to the well-being of patients and communities while enjoying a diverse and fulfilling professional experience. Get started today by contacting an Annashae recruiter who can connect you with opportunities across town or across the country.
As a vital component of healthcare, locum tenens professionals do more than address short-term needs. In light of today’s numerous health challenges facing seniors, locums offer adaptable, economical solutions that ensure high-quality care. Find out what a partnership could do for your internal medicine department and team.
