What Lies Ahead: Northwest Florida’s Healthcare Workforce Supply

Abstract

Studies describing healthcare workforce distribution are myriad. Little space, however, has been devoted to regional and local workforce issues. This literature review sought to first review national factors affecting healthcare supply, then progressively focus on the state and regional levels. The analysis concluded that, while healthcare workforce shortages are not present in Florida in terms of nursing, there is a significant gap between physician supply and demand. The results concluded that nearly all of the factors presented can be addressed through educational and health policy initiatives. Strategies were suggested to better meet the needs of Florida’s underserved populations through primary care providers.