Political Quotes

“As our Nation's 76 million Baby Boomers near retirement age, the number of Americans over age 65 will double to 70 million--one-fifth of the population. Americans older than 85 represent the fastest growing segment of this population and membership in this once exclusive demographic group is projected to grow from four million Americans today to an estimated 19 million by 2050. Unfortunately, our health care system is ill prepared to handle the strain of this enormous senior population, largely because we have a critical shortage of geriatricians. Fewer than 9,000 geriatricians practice in the U.S., far below the 20,000 or more needed to effectively care for the Nation's booming population of seniors. Ironically, the number of geriatricians is expected to shrink as many of these doctors retire at the same time baby boomers start qualifying for Medicare in large numbers. America must plan for the burdens the baby boomers demographic shift will place on our health care system and health care providers. Our first step is ensuring the country has an adequate number of well-trained geriatricians. I first introduced legislation to address the national shortage of geriatricians during the 105th Congress. While I am encouraged that greater attention has been focused on this issue, little has been accomplished to improve the shortage of geriatricians. Today, I am re-introducing legislation that will encourage more doctors to become certified in geriatrics.”