{"id":"0b3db42a-53db-417e-b710-aec3002e3d5f","slug":"physician-shortage-and-the-future-of-medicine","title":"Physician shortage and the future of medicine","authors":["Mary-Kate Hunnicutt"],"abstract":"Background: The author expresses concern regarding the projected shortage of physicians in the U.S., which is anticipated to reach 90,000 by 2020. This shortage is perceived to be influenced by governmental policies and the increasing administrative burdens on physicians, which detract from patient care. The author reflects on the implications of these changes for the future of medicine and the physician-patient relationship. Methods: The author has engaged in shadowing physicians and observing surgical procedures to gain insight into the medical profession and the impact of government involvement in healthcare. This experiential learning has informed the author's perspective on the challenges faced by physicians today. Results: The article highlights the growing trend of medical students considering specialties with less government oversight, such as vein specialty and plastic surgery. It also notes that the increase in patient volume due to physician shortages has led to a reliance on nurses and physician assistants to fulfill roles traditionally held by physicians. Conclusion: The author hopes to see a resolution to the challenges posed by government involvement in medicine, emphasizing the need to preserve the art and science of medicine. The future of the medical profession hinges on how effectively the government addresses the physician shortage and supports the roles of other healthcare providers. Keywords: physician shortage, healthcare policy, patient care, medical education, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, government involvement, medical profession","thumbnailUrl":null,"publishDate":"2014-12-15T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.146963","categories":["Original Article"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/4080/SNI-5-181.pdf"}