Close to 70% of all counties in the U.S. do not have an active gastroenterologist, according to a new workforce report from Medicus Healthcare Solutions.
The report, Addressing the Gastroenterologist Shortage, collected national workforce data and examined geographic disparities.
Here are 12 more workforce stats to know:
- There is an estimated shortfall of 510 gastroenterologists in 2026, and that number is expected to reach 830 by 2031.
- Across the U.S., there are more than 19,400 practicing gastroenterologists.
- Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York have the highest number of gastroenterologists per capita, with nine physicians for every 100,000 residents.
- Nevada, Montana, Oklahoma, North Dakota and Wyoming have just three gastroenterologists per capita.
- Nearly 60% of gastroenterology positions remain unfilled in the U.S., despite 57.6% of healthcare organizations searching for gastroenterologists.
- The median time to fill an open gastroenterology position is 186 days.
- About 19% of the gastroenterologist workforce has worked locum tenens either alongside their permanent position or as a standalone career.
- Gastroenterology ranks among the top most in-demand locum tenens specialty.
- Limited training capacity is stunting the pipeline growth for the speciality, as only 60.5% of gastroenterology fellowship applicants matched in 2025.
- In 2025, there were 759 fellowship positions offered and 1,247 total applicants.
- Over 40% of gastroenterologists reported feeling burnt out in 2025, and 61% feel they are not paid fairly.
- About half of gastroenterologists reported that professional burnout is hurting retention at their practice.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.