Lack of doctors plagues small Michigan communities

By ANJANA SCHROEDER
Capital News Service
LANSING – The state’s physician shortage has an adverse impact on smaller rural counties like Crawford and Roscommon while the demand for physicians nationwide remains high. According to the Department of Community Health, more than 10 counties are categorized as health professional shortage areas, including Wexford, Gladwin and Crawford. These areas have “significant need for additional primary health care resources,” according to the department. Jessy Sielski, director for communications of the Michigan State Medical Society, said the society advocates increased funding for medical residencies in Michigan and support. Mercy Hospital Grayling’s chief business development officer, Bryan Lydick, said its medical staff is comprised of physicians practicing in two counties – Crawford and Roscommon.