How to Combat Rising Orthopedist Demand

Growing population, shrinking pool of orthopedists.

Like most surgical specialties, orthopedics is an intense, competitive and demanding field. Residency programs are tough, with only 717 different spots spread out between 163 programs.

Despite a 100 percent fill-rate in these residency programs, orthopedics is facing a massive shortage of providers.

By 2026, that deficit will increase 20.87 percent from orthopedist demand in 2013. The U.S. will need 5,050 full-time orthopedic surgeons to compensate for demand.

Specializing in your specialty.

Patient cases are increasingly complex. This complexity is driving the development of new, specialized procedures. Researchers found that the subspecialties with the greatest increase in demand are:

  • Arthroplasty.
  • Pediatrics.
  • Shoulder and elbow.

These subspecialties are even harder to find and place, let alone hire full-time. A locum tenens orthopedic specialist can help fill your staffing gaps.

Who needs ortho the most?

Many of your patients will one day need an orthopedic doctor. As the age of your patient pool increases, so does the risk for falls and broken bones. Over the next 30 years, the elderly population will increase by 135 percent. Family Practice News projects elderly patients will receive 50 percent of all surgeries.

Spinal diseases and injuries are more likely to happen to those who are age 55+ as well. Osteoarthritis and Osteoporosis affect over 674 million people in the U.S. alone.

Investing in an orthopedic surgeon, notably one with a vital subspecialty, ensures the safety and care of your patients no matter what age they may be.

Sources: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, Health Services Research, HSS Research Institute, International Osteoporosis Foundation, Medical School Headquarters, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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Federal facts for you.

We are a Federal Supply Schedule Contract holder. 

Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) Contract: 36F79723D0086, Professional and Allied Healthcare Staffing, effective March 15, 2023, through March 14, 2028.

NAICS Codes:
  • 561320: Temporary help services. 
  • 621111: Offices of physicians. 
  • 621112: Offices of physicians, mental health specialists. 
  • 621399: Offices of all other miscellaneous health practitioners. 
  • 621330: Offices of mental health practitioners.

Privileging.

Once you and our client agree to move forward with your assignment, our privileging team will assist you and the client in gathering information required by the healthcare facility to grant clinical privileges.

1

We contact the facility’s Medical Service Office (MSO) for their application and requirements.

2

We will assist you by pre-populating the facility’s application and sending to the MSO.

3

We will assist the MSO by following up on requested items.

4

MSO will grant privileges based on your training and experience, and you will be able to start your assignment.

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Maggie Youmans

Senior Vice President, Sales

As Senior Vice President, Maggie oversees several key specialty divisions and adjacent teams. With a demonstrated history of leading teams and developing individuals across the organization, she is dedicated to inspiring, challenging and empowering associates to achieve their personal and professional goals. 

Maggie earned degrees in marketing and management focused on consumer economics from the University of Georgia, Terry College of Business. She enjoys traveling with her husband to visit different bed and breakfasts. Together, they have been able to see the beauty within their own backyard and across the country.

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Anne Anderson

Executive Vice President

"I'm passionate about the locum tenens industry - we make a real difference in the lives of both our heroic healthcare providers and the patients they treat."

Anne has been at the forefront of the evolution of locum tenens for more than 35 years. She’s a respected leader with expertise in corporate operations, risk management, credentialing, and travel services. Before joining Jackson + Coker, she served as Executive Vice President at Medical Doctor Associates, part of Cross Country Healthcare. 

An ardent industry advocate, Anne served several years on the Board of the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO), including two years as president. 

Anne received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Spring Hill College. She is also a PADI open water diver and enjoys scuba diving. 

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