Idaho has a terrible doctor shortage. But there’s a way to train new doctors here | Opinion
As an Idaho WWAMI medical student with a profound connection to my home state, my unwavering decision to practice family medicine in Idaho remains steadfast.
I am dedicated to serving underserved populations and advocating for healthcare equity in Idaho, which fuels my commitment to family medicine. This core value has been ingrained in me as a proud third generation Idahoan.
A Family Medicine Student in Idaho
Access to healthcare is an essential pillar of resilient and prosperous communities. When individuals have convenient access to healthcare providers, it empowers them to prioritize preventive measures, receive early diagnoses,and effectively manage chronic conditions.
Having received my education and training at various clinical sites within my home state, I have come to realize that Idaho is in desperate need of medical professionals, now more than ever. A significant majority of the state, 98.7%, is considered a primary care physician shortage area. There are just 196 physicians per 100,000 people, which is the fewest among ALL states.
The absence of these healthcare providers for routine check-ups, preventative health screenings, laboratory tests and immunizations, leads to a detrimental spiral of healthcare issues and mounting expenses.
Without enough family physicians to serve Idahoans, the difficulties faced by our patients are exacerbated. My choice to practice medicine in Idaho is deeply rooted in a sense of belonging and a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of the community that has played a significant role in shaping me. Family medicine, with its comprehensive approach to care, grants me the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and lives of fellow Idahoans.
More Family Medicine Physicians in Idaho
I firmly believe that physicians have the power to bring about positive change in the healthcare system, irrespective of the political climate. As part of our advocacy efforts, it is crucial to shed light on the pressing need for more medical residencies in Idaho.
Residency programs serve as the essential training grounds for doctors after they graduate from medical school. Studies have consistently shown that a significant majority of residents choose to stay and practice in the state where they completed their residency. Given that Idaho has been one of the fastest-growing states for seven years, it is imperative that we establish more residency programs to cater to the increasing population and ensure a sustainable healthcare workforce, particularly as Baby Boomer physicians approach retirement.
Idaho is my home, and I am deeply committed to making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of its people — my friends, my family. Regardless of where I am matched for my residency in March, my heart will always be in the Gem State, and I will return here to serve and practice medicine.