Boosting primary care; policymakers, academicians seek to change the mix

Article Abstract:

Authorities believe that medical costs will become more reasonable and access to care will improve if medical colleges place more emphasis on primary care. The Assn of American Medical Colleges has appointed a task force to modify student selection to increase the percentage specializing in family medicine, including internal medicine and pediatrics, rather than more technical specialties. Also, the Assn of Professors of Medicine has adopted a goal that 50% of internal medicine residents should specialize in primary care.

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Accreditors: should med schools boost family medicine?

Article Abstract:

The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) is proposing changes to medical school curriculum requirements which would encourage medical students' interest in primary care. Currently, only 42% of all physicians are in primary care, and that number is expected to decrease. The LCME is considering these changes in order to boost the number of primary care physicians produced by the nation's medical schools. State and federal regulators are considering enacting a quota system to accomplish the increase.

Standards

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Schools weighing response to push for primary care

Article Abstract:

The Assn of American Medical Colleges reports that fewer medical college seniors are choosing primary care specialties, in spite of pressure from state and federal agencies. For instance California's legislature passed a law withdrawing funds unless generalists make up 50% of residencies. In addition, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation plans a $63.6 award to medical schools for training generalists. The curricula of a number of outstanding medical colleges do not include a course in family medicine.

Social policy, Association of American Medical Colleges

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