A looming physician shortage threatens the U.S. healthcare system, with projections indicating a potential deficit of nearly 190,000 doctors by the mid-2030s. The shortfall stems from a federal cap on residency funding set in 1997, which has limited the number of new doctors entering the workforce. Experts warn that the gap could strain medical services and access to care across the country. The issue highlights the need for policy changes to address long-term workforce planning in healthcare.
The United States faces a projected deficit of approximately 187,000 physicians by the mid-2030s due to a federal residency funding cap established in 1997.
