According to an article by Everyday
Health, by 2025, the demand for neurologists will far outnumber the supply,
which could create longer wait times for multiple sclerosis patients to see
doctors for diagnostics and treatment. Patients with neurodegenerative
diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS), will have to wait longer to see a
specialist. Right now patients wait an average of 30 business days for a
follow-up visit.
The National MS Society recognized the trend several
years ago. The Society worked in partnership with American Academy of
Neurology to support legislation which was never considered which would
add neurology to the list of physicians eligible for the primary care incentive
in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Also the Society offers clinical
fellowships and other programs that we hope that will entice people to become
neurologists.
To learn more about how the shortage in neurologists
could affect you: read the full
article here. If you have experienced a wait time of more than 30 days to see your neurologist or travel more than 75 miles to see a neurologist, please post a comment sharing your story.
