Many Athenians are joining others around the nation in experiencing a longer wait to see doctors, and while the covid-19 pandemic has had an impact, it’s not the only reason. According to data from Association of American Medical Colleges the American Medical Colleges, the U.S. could see a shortage of 54,000 to 139,000 physicians by the 2033.
Dr. Grace Bagwell Adams is an associate professor of health policy and management in UGA’s College of Public Health and the principal investigator for the Athens Wellbeing project.
She discussed the situation in Athens, where physicians service a 17-county area.
Athens Doctor Shortage Expected to Worsen

NPR