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July 25, 2008 10:10:25 PM CDT

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Boomers Will Overrun Health System: Study

Posted Apr 15, 08 2:14 PM CDT in US,  Science & Health 

(Newser) – America’s healthcare system isn’t prepared to handle the wave of aging baby boomers about to hit, according to a sweeping government report released today. As that huge generation enters its 60s, the industry faces crisis-level workforce shortages, the Los Angeles Times reports. “There will never be enough geriatricians,” said one professor of medicine.

There’s just one geriatrics-certified physician for every 2,500 Americans over age 65, the report estimates. By 2030, the number 65 and older will have roughly doubled. At the same time, turnover among nurse’s aides is as high as 71% per year. Though the boomers are expected to have fewer health problems, their sheer numbers will crush the system.

Source Los Angeles Times

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Baby boomers will have fewer health problems than previous generations, but they will still overwhelm the system with sheer numbers, concludes a new government report.   (KRT Photos)
"There will never be enough geriatricians," said one professor of medicine.   (KRT Photos)
A woman uses a hearing aid device in this file photo.   (KRT Photos)
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health care  • nurses  • baby boomers  • geriatric medicine


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