HRSA: Shortage of critical-care physicians likely by 2020

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) issued a report May 22 predicting that the supply of physicians who specialize in treating critically ill patients likely won't keep up with growing demand. About 2,000 critical care physicians, or intensivists, currently work in the nation's intensive care units--a figure the HRSA predicts may need to more than double over the next 14 years.

In response to a 2003 request from Congress, the HRSA conducted the study to analyze whether the country would have enough critical-care physicians, according to the Associated Press. The agency projected two possible outcomes for demand: In one projection, the expected supply of 2,800 critical-care physicians in 2020 would meet demand. But the agency said that a more likely scenario shows 4,300 such physicians may be needed by 2020.

The HRSA said lawmakers may want to establish some financial incentives to attract and retain more critical care doctors. However, the agency said financial recommendations went beyond the scope of the report.

Source: "Agency predicts shortfall of some doctors," AP.

Read the HRSA report here.