South Iowa News

U.S. Representative Zach Nunn from Iowa has introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the shortage of primary care providers and strengthening the healthcare workforce. The legislation, known as the Train More Primary Care Doctors Act, is co-led by U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver II from Missouri. This bill seeks to reauthorize federal grants that support training more primary care providers.

"Our healthcare system is only as strong as the people who serve on the frontlines," said Rep. Nunn, highlighting the impact of the current provider shortage on Iowa families' access to necessary care. He emphasized the urgent need to address this issue so that all Iowans can access quality and affordable healthcare.

Primary care serves as a crucial first point of contact for individuals seeking medical attention, allowing providers to build long-term relationships with patients and understand their unique medical needs.

"Every American in every community deserves access to quality, affordable primary healthcare," stated Rep. Cleaver. He noted that many communities, especially rural ones, struggle to attract or maintain enough primary care doctors to meet their populations' needs. As Co-Chair of the Midwest Crossroads Caucus, he expressed pride in introducing this bipartisan act alongside his fellow Co-Chair.

The country faces a growing shortage of primary care providers (PCPs), projected by a recent U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration report to exceed 87,000 by 2037. This shortage particularly affects rural areas where patients may face longer wait times and delayed diagnoses.

Aaron Todd, CEO of the Iowa Primary Care Association, remarked on the importance of investing in the primary care workforce for community health and prosperity: "As we have seen workforce shortages across the country... it is imperative we continue to support those who dedicate their careers to helping others."

The Primary Care Training and Enhancement grant program provides financial support for training new primary care physicians and physician assistants through hospitals, schools of medicine, and physician assistant programs. Without reauthorization, this program will expire at the end of 2025.

The Train More Primary Care Doctors Act proposes reauthorizing this grant program at $49.924 million annually through fiscal year 2030.

Rep. Nunn introduced this bipartisan legislation during a press conference held at Primary Health Care in Des Moines.