Stay in the Fight: The Workforce is Counting on You

POSTED: May 18th, 2021
POSTED IN: Forum Topic,

Last month, ACEP unveiled the results of its multi-year workforce study which concluded that for the first time in history, we are headed toward a likely oversupply of emergency physicians in the next decade.

The data shows the stark reality to the impending workforce needs and provides the foundation for the next steps to course correct. It’s time to move past fear and frustration into action. There is not one perfect, holistic solution to address market-driven industry instability and no quick fixes for the challenges we face. 

You have our promise that ACEP will work tirelessly toward solutions and action plans to protect your role in the future of emergency medicine. Nothing will stand in our way.  We stand united with you.  

No matter where the future takes us, ACEP remains committed to fighting for the frontline pit doc — from academia, large or small groups, government to any other model of care. Even now, we are advocating in states nationwide to ensure your job is not done by anyone less qualified. We’re fighting NP/PA independent practice creep in state legislatures.

Our next step is to gather ideas from the entire specialty and develop action plans to stabilize and strengthen emergency medicine. From ACEP’s perspective, there are several key considerations, including:

• Stop the proliferation of emergency medicine residents and residency programs
• Raise the bar for emergency medicine residency training
• Ensure business interests don’t supersede the needs of educating the workforce
• Support practicing physicians to encourage rewarding practice in all communities
• Ensure appropriate use of NPs and PAs to protect the unique role of emergency physicians
• Guarantee that every patient has access to a board-certified emergency physician

We need you to work with us to enhance the direction of emergency medicine to address these realities. Your ideas on the future of the specialty are vital.

Sincerely,

Mark S. Rosenberg, DO, MBA, FACEP

ACEP President