Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025
Summary
The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 aims to increase the number of residency positions in the United States, particularly in underserved areas and hospitals already operating above their resident limits. It amends Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to distribute additional residency positions from 2026 through 2032, with a focus on rural areas, health professional shortage areas, and hospitals affiliated with new medical schools or historically Black medical schools. The Act also mandates a study on strategies to increase diversity in the health professional workforce.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase the number of resident physicians, especially in primary care and general surgery, in qualifying hospitals. This could improve healthcare access in underserved areas and address the physician shortage. The study on diversity may lead to policy changes aimed at creating a more representative healthcare workforce.
Potential Benefits
- Increased number of residency positions, addressing physician shortages.
- Prioritization of hospitals in rural and underserved areas, improving healthcare access.
- Support for hospitals affiliated with historically Black medical schools and new medical schools, promoting diversity.
- Potential for improved healthcare quality due to increased physician training.
- Mandated study on diversity in the health professional workforce, potentially leading to more equitable policies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased healthcare costs due to additional residency positions.
- Complex distribution process may lead to administrative challenges.
- Limitation on the number of positions a hospital can receive may hinder growth in some institutions.
- Focus on specific types of hospitals may neglect other areas in need of physicians.
- The effectiveness of the diversity study depends on the implementation of its recommendations.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by aiming to improve public health and healthcare access. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to healthcare funding and regulation under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8). The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).