Which physician specialties will see the most growth in 2019?

 

In a world of uncertain future job availability, physicians can rest assured that their skills and expertise will be in high demand well into the future. In fact, the Association of American Medical Colleges estimates that the U.S. could face a shortage of between 42,600 and 121,300 physicians by 2030.

If you're deciding on a specialty to build your medical career around, consider these options, which industry insiders say are currently in high demand:

Family medicine

Average salary: $220,500

Primary care providers will always be a staple of the healthcare industry. PCPs often act as an extension of the family unit, providing general medical support and providing specialist referrals when needed. Family medicine practitioners get to see and know their patients over the course of years, becoming indispensable health resources.

Internal medicine

Average salary: $247,700

Speaking with the American Medical Association, Merritt Hawkins executive vice president Travis Singleton noted that the demand for internists has grown rapidly because these specialists often take jobs as hospitalists.

"Hospitalists are stealing from them because not only are more and more fellows going into hospitalist positions than traditional internal medicine but even the existing staff—those who were out practicing internal medicine—are now shifting over to hospital work and specialties," noted Singleton. "Those staying in the field of general internal medicine is at an all-time low."

Psychiatry

Average salary: $222,800

According to the AMA, the number of requests for psychiatry specialists among hospital groups has been on the rise for several years. As mental health issues become less stigmatized in society, more patients want to talk with someone about their issues. As millennials and Gen Z'ers tend to feel more comfortable talking about their mental health than previous generations, it's likely this specialty will continue to grow into the future.

Obstetrics and gynecology

Average salary: $217,000

The importance of women's health issues has grown in prominence in recent years thanks to progressive cultural movements. However, the AMA reported that nearly half of all counties in the U.S. lack even a single OB-GYN. To make up for this disparity, the hospital groups across the country will need to work hard to fill these roles.

Finding your dream job in the medical field requires the determination to meet with recruiters, assess job opportunities and decide on a satisfactory work-life balance. To jumpstart your search, sign up for free job alerts on myHealthTalent.com today. If you’re deciding on a specialty to build your medical career around, consider these options, which industry insiders say are currently in high demand.