The Iowa Medical Society announced Thursday the final report for phase two of Operation I.O.W.A. (Innovative Opportunities for Workforce Action).
The report aims to address Iowa’s serious shortage of doctors with practical and coordinated solutions.
Through Phase I, IMS was able to secure $150 million to expand residency slots and was able to double the loan repayment fund to $8 million.
Phase II focuses on expanding the physician workforce, improving working conditions, and reducing administrative duties.
Operation I.O.W.A. phase II will bring education, health, and community partners together to move from planning to action.
The IMS press release stated Iowa is facing a physician workforce shortage and has the fewest OB/GYNs per capita of any U.S. state.
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges’ website, the nation will face a physician shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036.