Holliman contends that probably an additional 1,200 to 1,500 emergency physicians will be needed each year for at least the next decade. He says that estimate is based on the number of advertised openings each year. He estimates the total number of emergency physicians to be between 27,000 and 30,000 nationwide. Currently residencies graduate about 1,000 emergency physicians each year. However, Holliman contends that with a 3 percent retirement rate, that 1,000 will only keep up with demand and cutting the number would potentially be harmful to patients.
Emergency medicine includes a lot of orthopedics, pediatrics and trauma.
Internal medicine and family practice doctors do not have this specialized training. However, we should not prematurely get rid of those doctors who currently staff emergency departments. He adds that while there may be some variables regarding the number of emergency physicians needed in the future, two keys will almost definitely mean an increase is needed. We know we have an aging population. The elderly legitimately need an emergency department about twice as often as young, healthy persons.