The health care workforce shortage in Minnesota and across the nation is dire.

Data shows more than one in seven general practice doctors in Minnesota will reach retirement age in the next five years. For specialty physicians, the number is nearly one in five. A new national survey just found that more than 60% of doctors are considering retirement, finding a new job or changing careers, citing growing workloads. 

Greater Minnesota also continues to experience heightened workforce challenges. Physician employment grew in the Twin Cities but fell in Greater Minnesota. Also, providers outside the Twin Cities saw a 22% increase in nurse departures last year, compared to 2023.