The Physiatry Workforce in 2019 and Beyond, Part 2: Modeling Results

Timothy M. Dall, Ryan L. Reynolds, Ritashree Chakrabarti, Gaetano J. Forte, Margaret Langelier, Shen Wang, John Whyte, Nethra Sridhara Ankam, Thiru M. Annaswamy, Michael Fredericson, Nitin B. Jain, Danielle Perret Karimi, David C. Morgenroth, Chloe Slocum, Eric Wisotzky

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the current and future adequacy of physiatrist supply in the United States. Design A 2019 online survey of board-certified physiatrists (n = 616 completed, 30.1% response) collected information about demographics, practice characteristics, hours worked, and retirement intentions. Microsimulation models projected future physiatrist supply and demand using data from the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, national and state population projections, American Community Survey, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, and other sources. Results Approximately 37% of 8853 active physiatrists indicate that their workload exceeds capacity, 59% indicate that workload is at capacity, and 4% indicate under capacity. These findings suggest a national shortfall of 940 (10.6%) physiatrists in 2017, with substantial geographic variation in supply adequacy. Projected growth in physiatrist supply from 2017 to 2030 approximately equals demand growth (2250 vs. 2390), suggesting that without changes in care delivery, the shortfall of physiatrists will persist, with a 1080 (9.7%) physiatrist shortfall in 2030. Conclusion Without an increase in physiatry residency positions, the current national shortfall of physiatrists is projected to persist. Although a projected increase in physiatrists' use of advanced practice providers may help preserve access to comprehensive physiatry care, it is not expected to eliminate the shortfall.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)877-884
Number of pages8
JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Volume100
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Demand
  • Physiatrist
  • Supply
  • Workforce

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rehabilitation
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

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