Data Show Outreach Is Working, But Does Rheumatology Have Enough Positions Available?

“It’s nice to see that 80% of the applicants will remain in the U.S. to practice and treat patients,” she says. “That’s a positive sign.”

Dr. Dua says she is concerned that if enough rheumatology fellowships are not created over the coming years, then rheumatology will not keep pace with increasing excitement and demand, resulting in a reduction in the number of physicians who go into the field.

“If people feel like they can’t get training in the field they want to get into, it’s obviously a negative signal,” she adds. “I think it’s highly critical we get spaces for them.”

Richard Quinn is a freelance writer in New Jersey.

Reference

1. National Resident Matching Program. Results and data: Specialties matching service 2018 appointment year. 2018.