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Abstract: 

Doctor shortages have quietly strained U.S. health care for decades, but with an aging population and new policy pressures, the problem is reaching a crisis point. By 2036, the country may face a shortfall of 140,000 physicians, with rural areas hit hardest. This article traces how workforce bottlenecks—from the 1910 Flexner Report to congressional caps on residency slots—have left the nation ill-prepared for today’s demand. It also explores new challenges, such as post-Dobbs recruiting difficulties, and outlines reforms that could shift the trajectory: streamlined training, fairer compensation, loan forgiveness, and burnout relief. For health professionals and policymakers alike, the message is clear: addressing physician shortages is urgent and unavoidable.

Keywords: Physician Shortages; Medical Education; Health Workforce; Rural Health; Health Policy

Affiliations:  1: Harvard Kenney School; 2: Boston University School of Public Health.