We’ve all heard it: Central Florida’s population is booming, and with that growth comes an urgent need for more physicians and healthcare providers.
Earlier this year during the State of the County 2025 forum, the Florida Department of Health-Polk County released the latest findings from its intensive Community Health Assessment. For those outside the healthcare industry, the statistics offered a sobering look at access to care across our region.
The assessment identified what the department called a “provider shortage area,” with Polk falling behind the state average in number of doctors per 100,000 residents. In this edition of Central Florida Health News, we take a closer look at how local healthcare institutions are responding through strategic recruitment, strong retention efforts, and training.
Central Florida Health Care’s Phil Kenney shares insights into the organization’s recruitment approach, Watson Clinic Professional Services Director Kristin McFarland outlines how the clinic is partnering with key forces to address the shortage, and Florida Department of Health-Polk Health Officer Aaron Kissler discusses the department’s approach for recruitment and workforce development.
As always, be sure to explore the calendar for a roundup of this month’s events. On behalf of the Polk County Medical Association, we wish you a warm and happy holiday season.