RE: Why Family Medicine?

The number of primary care visits is expected to increase as the population ages and gains access to insurance. In 2024, Match data offered 19,423 primary care positions, which accounted for 46.8 percent of all provided positions. Family medicine had 5,213 positions available, which had increased by 551 since 2020. However, unfilled positions in family medicine rose from 7.5% in 2020 to 12.2% in 2024. Is the increasing trend of unfilled positions linked to a declining interest in family medicine? So, why family medicine?

Family medicine has been a personal journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. It has allowed me to balance my roles as a parent and a physician and to make a difference in my patients' lives. I have often heard primary care physicians referred to by patients and other specialties as the gatekeeper, the captain, or the referral team—different titles yet the same meaning. Our unique role as the 'gatekeeper' or 'captain' in patient care is a testament to our importance in the healthcare system. We serve as the front line in providing the first step to care. While other specialties were forced to the sidelines during the pandemic, family medicine physicians stood firm, continuing to care for patients. We were at the forefront, as we have always been, destined to lead as primary care physicians. We guide patients and make crucial decisions to maintain and enhance their mental and physical well-being. The vast array of practicing options unique to primary care allows physicians to be well-trained in all settings. However, it's important to note that the rewards of being a primary care physician go beyond the variety of practice settings. The deep relationships we build with our patients, the satisfaction of being the first point of contact in their healthcare journey, and the continuous learning from each patient's unique case are some intangible rewards that make this specialty genuinely fulfilling. These opportunities for personal and professional growth should instill a sense of hope and optimism in our potential future colleagues.

1. Petterson SM, Liaw WR, Phillips RL, Rabin DL, Meyers DS, Bazemore AW. Projecting US Primary Care Physician Workforce Needs: 2010-2025. Ann Fam Med. 2012;10(6):503-509. doi:10.1370/afm.1431
2. National Resident Matching Program, Results and Data: 2024 Main Residency Match®. National Resident Matching Program, Washington, DC. 2024.