Neurologists, gastroenterologists and otolaryngologists are among the most in-demand specialties, according to a report by Merrit Hawkins.
The specialties with “absolute demand” were determined by the number of vacant positions
The report, “Will there be a doctor in the house?” examines trends in the demand and shortage of physicians. The specialties considered “absolute demand” were determined by the number of vacant positions versus the number of physicians in a given specialty.
In the months leading up to the pandemic, the following specialties were found to be in the top 10 in “absolute demand.” That is, the number of vacancies versus the number of doctors in a given specialty.
Here are the top 10 specialties in “absolute demand”:
1. Neurology
2. Psychiatry
3. Gastroenterology
4. Hematology / Oncology
5. Dermatology
6. Urology
7. Otolaryngology
8. Geriatrics
9. Rheumatology
10. Family Medicine
While it is difficult for anyone to predict how these shortage specialties may change in the new COVID environment. The article’s authors point to several emerging trends, including an increase in the overall demand for physicians.
The salaries of specialists in general have increased. But the drop in elective procedures during COVID-19 certainly hit the starting salary across the board. Changes in Medicare and other payer reimbursement factors may also have contributed, the report’s authors noted.
Moving forward, Merritt Hawkins sees a likely return to normal and a jump in starting salaries that will follow.
“In the long term, the dynamics of supply and demand for physicians, including an aging population and an aging physician workforce. Stay in place. Over time, a shortage of doctors is likely to emerge again. This will stimulate demand for advanced doctors and professionals and put upward pressure on their starting salaries and other hiring incentives. “
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