Persistent workforce shortages and rising labor costs are reshaping care delivery across settings, including primary care. Health systems face projected physician shortfalls of up to 86,000 by 2036 and RN vacancy rates near 10%, forcing them to redesign roles, expand team‑based and virtual care, and lean more heavily on automation to sustain access and capacity. Workforce realities are now a central constraint—and catalyst—for operational and strategic decisions.