The shortage of general practitioners in Estonia is a major problem. Many general practitioners will soon retire. Additionally, doctors are overburdened because they also help with other problems.
It is possible to study to become a general practitioner at the University of Tartu. Usually, there are 40 spots, but this year 42 students were admitted. Professor Ruth Kalda said that this is an important step because all spots were filled for the first time.
The state considers family medicine important. If there are more good candidates, additional spots can be requested. However, this does not solve the current shortage of general practitioners.
The General Practitioners' Society emphasized that many general practitioners are already old and will soon retire. This means that some regions do not have general practitioners at all.
The four-year study period is long, and the current admissions will not solve the problem immediately. It is important to increase the primary care team to help general practitioners. This is a solution that general practitioners desire.