A Surprising Solution to Help Older Patients: More Geriatricians
The shortage of doctors specializing in geriatric care in the United States is a growing concern, especially as the population of older adults continues to increase. According to the American Geriatrics Society, there are just 7,300 board-certified geriatricians in the country, which accounts for less than 1 percent of all physicians. This shortage has significant implications for older patients who require specialized care that takes into account the unique challenges and needs associated with aging.
Sjogren’s syndrome patient Pat Early, 66, knows firsthand the importance of having access to a geriatrician. Living with the autoimmune disease since her 30s, Early had to search for a new doctor when her primary-care physician started cutting back on staff. This led her to a medical practice specializing in geriatric care, where she found