Katrina Kinetics: The Physician Supply.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina 10 years ago, acute changes were recognized and reported; acute kinetic destruction and desperation. Physicians performed heroically, but after the flood and the closing of hospitals, most left at least briefly. The chronic recovery began with spirit, but was uncharted and unplanned with the recognition that individual decisions were a necessity. The documentation of physician numbers of practicing doctors, residents and fellows, from the AMA as related to geography, population, and other circumstances tells an additional story of renewal, more objectively without the hype. The fall and rise of the physician population occurred, and was and is remarkable in its consistency, smaller than expected variations. Its effect generated promise for continuous chronic conditions of recovery and positive change.