Shortage of Primary Care Doctors Being Experienced

Could worsen with Affordable Care Act

A primary care doctor shortage is being experienced, and could worsen under the Affordable Care Act, experts say. Nearly 30 million Americans are expected to expected to obtain health insurance by 2014 through the federal health law, and that could place a greater strain on the physician workforce. "Now with the Affordable Care Act, we're going to have an even greater need," said state Sen. Ed Hernandez, D-West Covina (Los Angeles County), chairman of the Senate Health Committee. California has a higher physician-to-resident ratio than most states. In an attempt at a more immediate fix, Hernandez said he plans to push for legislation to give pharmacists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants more authority in patient care. (SF Gate)

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