PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tremendous impact on all of us. Many health issues have extended well beyond the initial issues in 2020.
People from all areas and from virtually all age groups are suffering from an increased level of anxiety and depression. Physicians are not immune.
Mental health and wellness of doctors is now a major concern, and Congress has introduced what is known as the Consolidated Appropriations Act, designed to ensure that physicians are provided counseling and mental health services as part of their contracts with hospitals and other organizations that hire them.
The goal is to include as many doctors as possible.
In addition to the personal toll, physician wellness has an impact on the communities they serve. It is anticipated that there will be a shortage of 124,000 physicians by 2034 if things do not improve.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
