Optimal Panel Size for Physicians? Hard to Say

By Kelly Young

Edited by David G. Fairchild, MD, MPH, and Jaye Elizabeth Hefner, MD

Evidence on the size of physicians' panels and healthcare outcomes is "surprisingly thin", finds a review in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Researchers reviewed 28 studies on the effects of panel size. They found that panel size had variable, no, or negative associations on measures of clinical quality, patient experience, access, and continuity. There was some evidence of larger panel size and physician burnout. The authors said there was not enough evidence to make recommendations about the ideal panel size for optimal results.

Editorialists from the American Medical Association write: "Rather than asking, 'What is the ideal panel size in primary care?' we suggest reframing the question to 'What is the ideal practice model that results in the best outcomes for the entire U.S. population?' We believe that a well-trained, well-resourced primary care team will make the most of society's investment in these physicians' training and will contribute to better experiences for patients and clinicians, lower costs, and better access to care."