50 Million Americans Face Critical Gaps in Care as Demand for Endocrinologists Surges
Living in an Endocrinology Desert Increases Mortality Risk by 12%, Study Finds
GoodRx (Nasdaq: GDRX), the leading prescription savings platform in the U.S., today revealed startling healthcare disparities in its new report, “Endocrinologist Deserts: A Critical Healthcare Gap for Millions in the U.S.” With nearly 70% of U.S. counties lacking an endocrinologist, the report paints a stark picture of the barriers millions of Americans face in managing life-threatening conditions like diabetes.
The findings come at a critical time as the prevalence of diabetes continues to surge nationwide. Over 38 million Americans are living with diabetes, yet many cannot access the specialized care needed to manage their condition effectively. Endocrinologists play a critical role in diagnosing and managing complex hormonal and metabolic conditions, including diabetes, obesity, menopause, thyroid disorders, and more. But for 50 million Americans in endocrinology deserts, help is likely out of reach. The lack of access correlates with significantly higher rates of diabetes complications, obesity, stroke, and even death.
Key findings from the report include:
- Nearly 70% of U.S. counties are entirely without an endocrinologist, leaving millions to delay treatment, travel long distances, or go without care altogether.
- People in counties without endocrinologists face a 12% higher mortality rate from endocrine-related diseases, along with elevated rates of diabetes complications, obesity, and stroke. For patients, this could mean more hospital visits, increased medical expenses, and worse health outcomes.
- Diabetes death rates soar in endocrinology deserts, more than doubling in places like Buffalo County, South Dakota (143.3 per 100,000), compared to Bell County, Kentucky (56.6 per 100,000) where specialists are available.
“The shortage of endocrinologists creates a critical barrier to care, leaving millions unable to manage life-altering conditions—a challenge compounded by rising medication costs and pharmacy closures,” said Tori Marsh, MPH, Director of Research at GoodRx. “Addressing these disparities requires innovative, equitable solutions like telemedicine and incentives for specialists to serve underserved areas, ensuring all patients have access to the treatment they need.”
GoodRx is dedicated to supporting people with diabetes by making essential care more accessible through substantial savings on medications and devices like continuous glucose monitors, as well as expert-created health content to empower individuals to make informed health decisions for themselves and their families. Key offerings include:
- Savings on generic diabetes medications. Save up to 80% off diabetes medications, with 20 medications under $20 to treat diabetes and related conditions.
- Exclusive brand-name discounts. Save on commonly prescribed GLP-1 and GIP medications.
- Trusted health resources. Visit the Diabetes Center for expert advice and treatment options written by doctors, pharmacists, and health experts.
The full endocrinology desert report is available from GoodRx Research, here.
About GoodRx
GoodRx is the leading prescription savings platform in the U.S. Trusted by more than 25 million consumers and 750,000 healthcare professionals annually, GoodRx provides access to savings and affordability options for generic and brand-name medications at more than 70,000 pharmacies nationwide, as well as comprehensive healthcare research and information. Since 2011, GoodRx has helped consumers save over $75 billion on the cost of their prescriptions.
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