Cardiologist Job Outlook: What to expect in the next 5 years

Numbers tell the story.  

Industry studies show that 60 percent of all cardiologists are over age 55 and by 2030, there could be a shortage of as many as 120,000 with shortages specifically in the fields of non-invasive cardiology, invasive cardiology and interventional cardiology.  

COVID didn’t help. A 2020 American College of Cardiology survey showed burnout among cardiovascular professionals nearly doubled from 20 percent to 38 percent following the pandemic – leading professionals to leave the field, retire early or reduce their work hours. 

Put it all together and experts estimate we’ll need 18 percent more cardiologists annually over the next five years as the demand for cardiologists continues to outpace the supply.  

That’s because a large portion of the U.S. population is getting older. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that adults 65 and older will outnumber children in population size for the first time by 2034. And conditions such as Coronary Artery Disease, Peripheral Artery Disease and Pulmonary Hypertension which were fatal among geriatric patients in years past are now treated as chronic diseases. 

Still, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women and people in most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. The increase in obesity and other CV risk factors also results in the need for more cardiologists. 

The field of cardiology is evolving as well. As cardiologists enter the field, many choose to specialize in interventional cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, heart failure or electrophysiology, so the numbers of general cardiologists are shrinking. 

And while many cardiology treatments can now be managed in an outpatient setting – or with fewer days in a hospital – many patients present with more complex cases than ever before. 

Long story short? The demand for locum cardiology physicians is high in many specialties, especially:

  • Interventional and invasive cardiologists; 
  • Non-invasive cardiologists; 
  • Cardiovascular and vascular surgeons and  
  • Cardiac anesthesiologists.

There is also a need for cardiology nurse practitioners and physician assistants in many areas, as NPs and PAs can fill some of the voids in access to cardiac care. 

Opportunities exist all over the U.S. – especially in rural areas – and can range from inpatient/outpatient roles to a variety of shifts and call schedules.  

As the U.S. population continues to age and as cardiac care continues to evolve, the field of cardiology will remain strong for years to come as technology improves – meaning better care and outcomes for all patients of every age.

Don’t wait! Search in-demand Cardiologist jobs with SUMO Staffing today!