Frequently, I hear about colleagues who are looking for a partner to join their busy practice, a scientist to join their units or even for a chief to lead their division. Although I know the statistics of supply and demand in rheumatology, I am amazed at how the demand seems to outstrip the supply of rheumatologists and rheumatology professionals.
I am also amazed at how little data most folks seem to have to inform them of when, how and who to hire or how their practice’s performance compares with others. Those who have a strong and verifiable understanding of their economic status will succeed whether in independent, system-owned or academic practices.
There have been many publications in recent years discussing the workforce shortage that challenges rheumatology and other subspecialties. This challenge is projected to continue into the near future. Additionally, the rheumatology practice environment is facing significant changes created by healthcare reform and other market forces.