How to help solve the shortage of physicians
Re “Needs of Patients Outpace Doctors,” June 4
As a practicing cardiologist for 30 years, I have seen many colleagues retire early or leave the area to avoid losing their autonomy and pride. They refused to practice HMO medicine, giving their patients inferior care dictated by faceless bureaucrats of the insurance industry. I tried HMO medicine briefly and left it in a hurry.
The only way to bring bright minds back to this great profession is to restore the honor and professional integrity by eliminating HMO medicine and restoring doctor-patient confidentiality. Doctors are here to take care of the sick, not to cater to the whims of insurance executives. As long as the perception remains that the insurance companies are controlling patient care, the physician shortage will worsen.
VENKAT WARREN MD
Long Beach
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An entire article about the physician shortage and not one single word on the effect of malpractice lawsuits. Plenty of bright young people have stayed clear of the medical sector as a profession because they do not want to be litigated to death. Why would you not include this aspect in your article?
JAMES DYCKES
La Palma, Calif.
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Only physicians can practice medicine. Nurse practitioners, however, are more than prepared to identify what is not normal and make appropriate referrals to a medical specialist. Perhaps organized medicine should think about supporting the preparation of medical and surgical specialists and leaving primary care to nurse practitioners, who could work under the supervision of a family practice physician.
JANE KIMBALL RN
San Pedro
