Wait times in doctors’ offices could be getting longer as the state continues to see a shortage of physicians.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences says the shortage has been a problem for years. The hospital now trying to correct it before it gets worse by offering a fast-track program for medical students.

UAMS says its hope is students come out of the program with less debt and will be more inclined to take jobs in rural areas.

White River Medical Center CEO Gary Paxson says on average the hospital gets five-seven new physicians each year, which he says is much lower than a major city.

Paxson says he hopes UAMS’ program will help bring more physicians in.

UAMS says COVID-19 played a role in the shortage of physicians due to burnout.

They say that coupled with a growing elderly population could create a problem with more needed care and few to provide it.

See the full article from Fox16.com here.