Written by Steve Sandstrom, SIU School of Medicine
There’s a potential shortage of primary care physicians on the horizon as more patients seek health care under the Affordable Care Act and the Baby Boomers age. What’s a medical school to do?
When you fall ill or have a medical need that surpasses the available over-the-counter remedies, it’s time to see a doctor. It’s very likely that the physician you see is a primary care doctor, what was once known as a “GP” — a general practitioner.
For many of us, these doctors are the first line of defense. They are men and women who can treat everything from a respiratory infection to a broken leg, help us fight diabetes or understand depression.
But a shortage is looming. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) estimates that by 2020, the need for primary care physicians will grow to 45,000.
SIU School of Medicine was built on the principle of meeting the health needs of people in our region by educating doctors — including but not limited to primary care doctors.
The mission is being fulfilled. In last month’s residency matching program, 51% of SIU’s graduating doctors chose primary care practices. About half of SIU’s 2,615 graduates have gone into primary care. According to the AAMC, SIU School of Medicine ranks among the top 30 percent of all U.S. medical schools in graduates working in primary care.
The School’s current dean, Dr. J. Kevin Dorsey was recently quoted on NPR about the commitment required to get doctors-in-training to look beyond the larger paychecks of medical specialties, and consider the greater good of primary care. It’s an ongoing struggle — just like staying healthy.
Make an appointment for a checkup with your primary care physician. If you don’t have one, call SIU HealthCare at 545-8000 for help.
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