Study Shows a Need for More Primary Care Physicians in Ohio

The state needs to add 650 more primary care physicians by 2015 to help meet Ohioans’ needs in community health centers, according to a recently released report. The study which was conducted by the National Association of Community Health Centers, says that the increased provider level would able to provide services to more than 622,000 Ohioans.

The report notes that fewer medical students are selecting primary care careers, and that the number of primary care training programs is on the decline. To address the situation, the report says workforce development programs must be strengthened, and opportunities to serve underserved populations need to be expanded. The study also recommends changes in the provider payment system to underscore the role of primary care. OACC said the state is looking to address the physician shortfall by working closely with medical schools. To view the entire study go to:

http://www.nachc.com/client/documents/ACCESS%20Transformed%20full%20report.PDF