New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Navigating the Future: Addressing the Physician Shortage at Franklin Resources

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Franklin Resources Franklin Resources, Inc., commonly known as Franklin Templeton, typically collaborates with various healthcare providers depending on the specific needs of its employees and plans. While they do not publicly list a single healthcare provider, companies like Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare often serve large corporations like Franklin Resources for group health insurance and benefits. Predicted Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 for Franklin Resources As 2026 approaches, Franklin Resources faces significant challenges regarding healthcare costs. A perfect storm of factors is contributing to anticipated sharp increases in premiums, with some states expecting hikes over 60%. The looming expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies will leave many policyholders exposing them to potential out-of-pocket cost increases of more than 75%. Meanwhile, coupled with a general uptick in medical costs-primarily due to inflation and rising demand for care-the financial burden on employees could become substantial moving forward. Organizations like Franklin must prepare both strategically and financially for this impending shift in the healthcare landscape. Click here to learn more

'With the looming physician shortage and the wave of retirements, it's critical for Franklin Resources companies to consider innovative workforce solutions, including leveraging technology and expanding educational opportunities, to ensure the stability and efficiency of healthcare systems in the years ahead.' – Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'To address the physician shortage and aging workforce, Franklin Resources companies must prioritize strategic workforce planning and the integration of advanced technologies, ensuring that healthcare systems remain resilient and capable of meeting future demands.' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The demographic challenges and physician shortages facing the healthcare industry.
The role of technology and education reforms in addressing workforce gaps.
The economic, social, and cultural dynamics reshaping healthcare employment.

As Franklin Resources medical workforce nears retirement, a looming crisis threatens the stability of healthcare systems, exacerbated by an anticipated physician shortage. This pressing issue has become urgent as an aging population demands more frequent and sophisticated healthcare services.

Demographic Challenges and Rising Demand for Healthcare Professionals

By 2036, the elderly population in the United States is projected to increase significantly, with those aged 65 and older expected to rise by 34.1%, and those 75 and older by 54.7%. This demographic shift is set to dramatically expand the demand for healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions and surgical interventions. As the first generation to face such a stark shortage of physicians, Baby Boomers are likely to experience unprecedented pressures on healthcare systems. This year alone, a shortfall of 57,259 doctors has been projected, with expectations of this gap widening to 81,180 by 2035.

The Retirement Cliff in Healthcare

Currently, 20% of physicians are aged 65 or older, and more than 30% of all practicing doctors are at least 60. Certain specialties, such as pulmonology, have an even greater proportion of older practitioners, with 73% aged 55 and above. Systems like AdventHealth have implemented strategies to manage this aging workforce, including part-time roles and mentorship opportunities to uphold skills and competency.

Adapting Through Technology and Educational Reforms

Despite efforts to adapt, challenges persist, partly due to a constrained educational pipeline. Federal funding limits set by the 1997 Balanced Budget Act have severely restricted the growth of new physicians by capping Medicare funding for residency training. To address the growing demand, health systems are increasingly turning to technology like telemedicine and AI to streamline processes and extend the reach of current staff. The role of advanced practice providers, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, has become crucial in managing less critical cases.

Economic and Social Dynamics in Healthcare

Inflation-adjusted health spending per person has increased from $2,151 in 1970 to $14,570 in 2023. This economic burden is compounded by an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases and the corresponding use of multiple prescription medications. The field is also grappling with evolving expectations around work-life balance, significantly impacting the career choices of medical professionals.

Cultural Shifts and Strategic Responses

The healthcare sector has witnessed a cultural shift away from the autonomy traditionally enjoyed by physicians, moving towards more structured organizational employment. This change has left many practitioners feeling less satisfied, noting increased regulatory oversight and corporatization, as highlighted by Dr. Peter Grape's reflections on his career in cardiology.

Looking Ahead: Innovation and Engagement

To navigate these challenges, leaders in the field recommend incremental changes to improve working conditions and boost the appeal of the medical profession. Embracing technological innovations, expanding training opportunities, and reevaluating organizational cultures are seen as critical steps toward sustaining healthcare delivery.

In summary, the healthcare system stands at a critical juncture. The combination of an aging population and a wave of retiring physicians could severely impact the system unless proactive, thoughtful changes are made. The early retirement trend among senior physicians, accelerated by pandemic-induced burnout, underscores the urgency of strategic reforms to maintain a capable healthcare workforce.

This comprehensive examination highlights the pressing challenges and potential strategies for sustaining healthcare excellence at Franklin Resources, emphasizing the need for strategic foresight and innovative solutions to maintain the continued well-being of its workforce and the broader community.

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Articles you may find interesting:

Source:

1. Boyle, Patrick. 'Aging Patients and Doctors Drive Nation’s Physician Shortage.' Association of American Medical Colleges , 11 June 2021, www.aamc.org/news-insights/aging-patients-and-doctors-drive-nation-s-physician-shortage .

2. 'Health Care Workforce Shortages.' NIHCM Foundation , Oct. 2024, nihcm.org/publications/health-care-workforce-shortages.

3. Robeznieks, Andis. 'Doctor Shortages Are Here—And They’ll Get Worse if We Don’t Act Fast.' American Medical Association , 13 Apr. 2022, www.ama-assn.org/about/reports-studies/doctor-shortages-are-here-and-theyll-get-worse-if-we-dont-act-fast .

4. 'America’s Aging Population Is Leading to a Doctor Shortage Crisis.' CNBC , 10 May 2022, www.cnbc.com/2022/05/10/americas-aging-population-is-leading-to-a-doctor-shortage-crisis.html .

5. 'Aging Short Version.' University at Albany, SUNY , www.albany.edu/sph/cphce/phl_0214.shtml .

What retirement savings options does Franklin Resources offer to its employees?

Franklin Resources offers a 401(k) plan as part of its employee benefits package, allowing employees to save for retirement.

How does Franklin Resources match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Franklin Resources provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.

Can employees of Franklin Resources choose how to invest their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees at Franklin Resources can select from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to tailor their retirement savings according to their risk tolerance and financial goals.

What is the eligibility requirement for Franklin Resources employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Franklin Resources are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within their first year of employment.

Does Franklin Resources offer any educational resources for employees to learn about their 401(k) options?

Yes, Franklin Resources provides educational resources, including workshops and online tools, to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

How can employees of Franklin Resources access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the Franklin Resources employee portal or by contacting the plan administrator directly.

What types of contributions can employees make to the 401(k) plan at Franklin Resources?

Employees at Franklin Resources can make pre-tax contributions, Roth contributions, and possibly after-tax contributions, depending on the plan's provisions.

Is there a vesting schedule for the matching contributions made by Franklin Resources?

Yes, Franklin Resources typically has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at Franklin Resources?

Yes, Franklin Resources allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's rules and limits.

What happens to an employee's 401(k) plan if they leave Franklin Resources?

If an employee leaves Franklin Resources, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance into an IRA or a new employer's retirement plan, or they can cash out, subject to taxes and penalties.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

In 2024, Franklin Resources announced a major restructuring plan that includes significant layoffs across various departments. The company is also revising its pension plan, which will impact future retirees. Furthermore, changes to the 401(k) matching contributions are expected.