Why does it take so long to see a doctor in the US?

A new survey shows wait times for new doctor appointments are increasing. Among them are a shortage of physicians, an increase in the number of people with health insurance, and the extra time burden on doctors to deal with electronic medical records.

How long should you wait to see a specialist?

On average, it’s about a 20-day wait to see a specialist, and about a 20-day wait to see a primary care doctor. So if you have something that you don’t want to go to the ER for, you’re gonna wait on average about 40 days.

What causes long wait times?

When supply is low but demand is high, facilities will receive too many patients that they might not be able to handle at times. We know that overcrowded waiting rooms inevitably cause longer wait times. And always having enough staff will ensure they can take care of all their patients.

What do doctors complain about most?

Common Patient Complaints

• Scheduling difficulties.
• Disagreements with staff.
• Feeling unheard.
• Not getting enough time with the doctor.
• Waiting too long.
• Confusion with insurance and billing.

What is the average wait time for a doctor’s appointment?

The doctors were from five medical specialties: family medicine, cardiology, dermatology, obstetrics/gynecology, and orthopedic surgery. Researchers said the survey showed that the wait time for a new patient-physician appointment has risen to an average of 24 days. That compares with 18 days in 2014, 20 days in 2009, and 21 days in 2004.

Why can’t I get an appointment with a doctor?

Experts say a physician shortage and electronic health records are part of the reason. Getting an appointment with a doctor shouldn’t be a problem. As long as you can wait three weeks or even a little longer.

How long does it take to get an appointment with a dermatologist?

The average time new patients have to wait for an appointment is over 18 days, according to a recent survey. By the time a new patient hears the words “the doctor will see you now,” it may have taken weeks or even months to get that appointment. Need to see a dermatologist in Boston?

Are appointment wait times longer in mid-sized metro markets?

Appointment wait times are longer in mid-sized metro markets than in large metro markets. The average wait time for a new patient physician appointment in all 15 mid-sized markets was 32 days, 32.8\% higher than the average for large metro markets.