A new analysis by GoodRx reveals that over two-thirds of American counties lack a practicing endocrinologist, putting 50 million people at risk for poor health outcomes. The study found individuals living in “endocrine deserts” are 12% more likely to die from endocrine-related conditions and have higher rates of diabetes, obesity, and stroke.
The shortage is most severe in rural areas with high type 2 diabetes prevalence, particularly in southern states and Native American reservations. Maps show a clear pattern of clustering endocrinologists on the coasts and around major cities, leaving many counties without access to specialized care.
According to The Endocrine Society’s chief medical officer, Robert Lash, MD, this is not a new problem and has been an ongoing issue for years. However, he notes that the shortage may be linked to healthcare professional shortage areas, rather than direct causation. To address the issue, The Endocrine Society has launched initiatives to boost interest in endocrinology among medical students.
The organization has awarded grants to 10 medical schools to start endocrinology interest groups and sponsors VIP experiences for promising students. However, it may take several years for these efforts to yield results, as it typically takes four years of internal medicine residency before fellowship programs become available.
Source: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/us-counties-have-no-endocrinologist-new-study-finds-2024a1000p3j