Family physicians' perceptions of health manpower needs in West Virginia

West Virginia family physicians feel that they are able to assess the health care needs of their communities. There is a need for more physicians in all of the major specialties in West Virginia, but the largest numbers of physicians are needed in family practice and obstetrics. More registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are needed than any other health care professionals. Twenty-five percent of the respondents are actively recruiting associates, and 48 percent have seriously considered leaving, or are leaving West Virginia. The most commonly cited reasons for leaving are inadequate reimbursement, the state's economy, SB-576, lack of tort reform, and state government in general. The greatest advantage given to practicing in the state are its people, the quality of life, and home and family. In addition, the greatest problems are reimbursement, state government, the malpractice climate and the state economy. The survey shows that state government needs to show a good faith effort to enact tort reform to improve relations with physicians. The threat of losing more physicians is real and must be addressed. Improving the climate for the practice of medicine is a viable solution to West Virginia's manpower problems. There is also a need to continue all present health care professional training programs. More emphasis should be placed on recruitment and retention of nursing students. There is expressed support for nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and physicians' assistants all working under the supervision of physicians. The finding that home and family are frequently listed as advantages to practicing here indicates recruitment and nurturing of students from underserved areas should be increased.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)