A broken pipeline impacts more than access to care — it affects the people who rely on it every day. This isn’t just a workforce issue — it’s showing up in delayed diagnoses, missed follow-ups, and patients navigating care without the support they need.
As gaps in the workforce pipeline grow, the strain on healthcare teams increases, making it harder to deliver timely, consistent care. Over time, this impacts patient outcomes and widens existing disparities across our communities, disparities that carry real, long-term consequences for population health.
The impact of this shortage becomes even clearer when we look at the data. Arizona is projected to face a shortage of more than 111,000 healthcare workers by 2033¹. This shortage represents more than a workforce gap; it reflects the quality of care individuals experience, the barriers they face in accessing services, and the increasing pressure on providers working to meet growing demand without increased support.
These gaps aren’t isolated; they’re happening across the system. From primary care to behavioral health, the effects are especially evident in the management of chronic conditions, which depend on consistent, ongoing care.
When access to care is limited, managing chronic conditions becomes increasingly difficult. Across Arizona, chronic disease continues to place a significant burden on communities. Conditions such as heart disease remain a leading concern, accounting for 7 out of 10 deaths and resulting in more than 50,000 hospitalizations each year².
These outcomes reflect more than individual health challenges — they highlight the growing demand placed on an already strained system. Barriers that make the difference between a patient getting the care they need and falling through the gaps in the existing pipeline.
Short-term solutions won’t fix this. Our patients can’t fall through the pipeline gaps. Strengthening the pipeline requires a more intentional approach — one that supports a prepared, sustainable workforce and prioritizes both the needs of our communities and those of the healthcare system.
Investing in experiences and opportunities can make the difference between a pipeline that moves patient care forward and one that disrupts care. Strengthening the pipeline starts with intentional actions:
- Expanding access to clinical and experiential learning opportunities
- Supporting student placements, mentorship, and preceptorships
- Creating pathways for early exposure to healthcare careers
- Connecting with local organizations and educational institutions to build meaningful partnerships
These 4 small steps can create a lasting impact. The pipeline isn’t broken because people don’t care — it’s broken because too few are positioned to act. That can change.
Complete the interest form now to bridge the gap and support opportunities that support our communities.
References:
1)Evans A, Hoffman D, Madly E, Rex T. Healthcare in Arizona: Worker Shortages, Economic Impact, and Socioeconomic Benefits. Arizona State University, L. William Seidman Research Institute; April 2024.
2)Hamzazai A. Chronic diseases in Arizona. University of Arizona Center for Rural Health. Published May 9, 2023. Accessed April 1, 2026. Chronic diseases in Arizona
By: Jocelyn Romero | April 1, 2026