Physician Wait Times Surge Amid National Doctor Shortage
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A new analysis from AMN Healthcare underscores a critical strain on the U.S. healthcare system: longer wait times for physician appointments are emerging as a clear signal of a growing physician shortage. Across 15 major metropolitan areas, patients now wait an average of 26 days to see a new physician, up 8% from 2022 and 24% from 2017. In particular, wait times for family medicine rose 30% over the past year. The report attributes these delays to several compounding factors, including physician burnout, retirements, and a slower pipeline of new medical professionals.
The implications for physicians are clear: overburdened schedules, rising patient demand, and increased pressure on practice efficiency. MSSNY continues to advocate for policy solutions that support physician well-being and career longevity.
2025 Survey of Physician Appointment Wait Times and Medicare and Healthcare Technology Medicaid Acceptance Rates (AMN Healthcare, 5/2025).
