Letters: Facing the doctor shortage
Monday, June 14, 2010 - 02:11
in Health & Medicine
Re: the June 7 article "Agencies Warn of Coming Doctor Shortage": As a physician who specializes in hospice and palliative medicine, I understand the healthcare challenges faced by many aging Americans who suffer from multiple maladies and are often frustrated by a system that has not met their needs. Although it will be challenging to adequately address the needs of these patients due to a shortage of physicians, palliative medicine doctors can help. We work alongside geriatricians, family doctors and internists and focus on relieving suffering and providing support and care coordination for patients with serious illness and their families.