Advocacy Talking Points Medicare
Adjusted for practice cost inflation, Medicare physician reimbursement has fallen 33 percent since 2001, leaving many physicians earning less today than at the start of their careers, despite rising costs and inflation. • Consecutive years of cuts are unsustainable – leading to: Reduced patient access to care Lower quality of care Increased physician burnout and frustration Seniors, low-income patients , and rural communities are most at risk of facing the greatest challenges in accessing healthcare .
Key Takeaway: These pressures are driving some physicians to retire early , leave the profession, switch careers, or even deter others from entering the field .
Physician Shortage By 2036, the U.S. could face a shortage of up to 86,000 physicians , driven by growing demand from an aging population and a shrinking workforce . Without action, timely access to care , especially for seniors and rural areas , will continue to decline .
What’s Driving the Shortage? Rising Demand : • U.S. population expected to grow 8.4% by 2036 . • Adults 65+ will grow by 34.1% , and those 75+ by 54.7%. • Older adults need more frequent , complex care .
Shrinking Supply : •
In 2021 , 42% of physicians were 55 or older . Over one-third may retire or leave practice within 10 years .
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A 2024 Mercer report warns that 19 states , including Texas, New York, and California, will face shortages by 2028.
Key Takeaway: The U.S. faces a growing physician shortage driven by rising demand from an aging population and a shrinking workforce , threatening timely access to care and increasing strain on both patients and physicians .
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