A national physician shortage is acutely affecting Baldwin County, making it a challenge to access primary care.

“We’re one of the fastest growing counties in the state, and in the country,” said Dr. Holly Pursley, director of residency curriculum and well-being for the Thomas Hospital Internal Medicine Residency Program, part of Infirmary Health. “It’s very difficult to find a primary care provider here.”

According to a 2021 report from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the U.S. could be short between 37,800 and 124,000 physicians by 2034. In primary care, the shortage is projected to be between 17,800 and 48,000 doctors; in specialties, the shortage is projected to be between 21,000 and 77,100 doctors.

The Alabama Department of Public Health has designated Baldwin County as a “medically underserved area,” like most of the state. And while parts of Mobile County are considered “medically underserved,” the need is not as great as in Baldwin County, Pursley says.

For primary care, the ADPH designates “Health Professional Shortage Areas” throughout the state and scores each county on a scale of 1-25. The higher number, the worse the shortage. North Baldwin County is not designated, but south Baldwin County received a score of 15. Mobile County received a score of 13.