Adding more specialists is not likely to improve population health: Is anybody listening?

Robert L. Phillips Jr., Martey S. Dodoo, and Larry A. Green

Before a shortage of physicians, and particularly subspecialists, in the United States is declared, it is worth reviewing the considerable evidence that calls into question whether further specialization automatically improves health. Barbara Starfield and colleagues' latest research reveals, again, that having more specialists may not be a good thing. The current workforce functions well as an economic engine, but continued emphasis on market demand will likely widen disparities in workforce distribution and population health. The resurgence of interest in shaping the future physician workforce should lead to purposeful choices about what we want them to do and the outcomes we expect.

Phillips RL, Dodoo MS, Green LA. Adding more specialists is not likely to improve population health: Is anybody listening? Health Affrs 2005; March 15 (web exclusive).