Watch CBS News

Sen. Casey: VA Scandal Highlights Nation's Doctor Shortage

By Mike DeNardo

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Pennsylvania's senior U.S. Senator says the current scandal over delayed care at VA hospitals is bringing attention to the nation's shortage of doctors.

Senator Bob Casey says the nation faces a shortage of 90,000 doctors by the year 2020. Standing before residents at Jefferson Hospital, Casey said a bill he has co-sponsored would remove the current cap on Medicare residency positions, providing 15,000 more slots by 2019. Casey also says having more doctors is worth the cost.

"I think this country can afford a billion dollars more a year over ten years to get this done," he said.

Casey hopes the bill can see action before the end of the year.

"I do think that the problems at the VA create an opportunity for this kind of legislation to get more momentum," he explained.

For now, the bill remains in the Senate Finance Committee.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.