Report predicts shortage of nearly 30,000 caregivers in geriatrics

According to a national report, demand for primary care is projected to increase by 20 percent during the next few years.

Along with the rising demand for health care, comes the aging population, which will also increase.

A report from the Wisconsin Council on Medical Education and Workforce predicts a shortage of nearly 30,000 doctors specializing in geriatrics - treating the elderly - by 2025.

“This is a very important group to learn about if you’re going into health care or thinking about healthcare because it is certainly a growing population,” said Regional Nurse Educator at Dove Health Care, Amanda Bradley.

Bradley says for anyone looking to get into this field, she recommends a certified nursing assistant (CNA) course.

According to Bradley, the state of Wisconsin currently has a grant, the WisCaregiver grant, that pays for training and testing fees, in exchange for a person agreeing to work for 6 months in a nursing home setting.

“I think the best bonus about working with this population is that you really develop a relationship,” said Bradley.

To view the full report,