One of the things we’ve talked about a fair amount with GE and on the blog is our desire to see more people (especially kids) get interested in science and want to become scientists.
Well, it looks like we should also be thinking about how to get more kids to think about becoming doctors. This from Slate:
Obama-administration officials have reportedly become alarmed by doctor shortages, especially since millions of previously uninsured people would gain coverage—and therefore increase demand—if the president manages to pass national health care reform. To make up for the physician shortfall, which several studies suggest could reach 100,000 over the next 20 years, the Association of American Medical Colleges is recommending a 30 percent increase in med-school enrollment.
They then proceed to go through all the reasons why this is the case at the moment (more patients, doctors working fewer hours, etc.). I wonder if this isn’t another goal we can consider when we’re thinking about how to help communicate what GE is up to in the health world.
Update (4/29/09): J makes a good point in the comments: “Are you sure there’s really a shortage of students that want to become doctors? Looking at these numbers – looks like each school accepts far less than 10% of applicants. I realize that some are not qualified, some go to other schools, etc… but is it possible that there’s no need for encouragement? The demand is there – its just the supply that needs to be increased.” While this is true, I guess the flip side is that the schools need to keep their admissions low to keep the talent level high. Or maybe not, I’ve heard of colleges keeping admissions artificially low for rankings. Interesting.
