Nationally, there is a shortage of primary health care providers, such as family practice physicians and other generalists and this shortage is expected to increase with the aging baby boomer population. Research why this shortage exists and what actions are being taken to correct it.

1. What are the educational requirements for generalists vs. specialist physicians?
2. Are there enough education programs, internships, and residencies available? Why or why not?
3. What is the average pay for a generalist vs. a specialist?
4. Considering all you have learned during this exercise, why does the shortage still exist?
5. Until more generalist physicians are available, how can we meet the need for primary care providers?