Sumo Medical Staffing

When your gastrointestinal system is working the way it should, you probably never give it a second thought. But when it’s NOT working correctly, you can probably think of nothing else! 

That’s why gastroenterologists are an important part of our medical communities, and why the 14,116 gastroenterologists in the U.S. currently actively involved in patient care stay pretty busy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between now and 2032, we’ll see a continued 3 percent job growth in gastroenterology – and with 50.8 percent of gastroenterologists aged 55 or older, we could see “nearly half of the current gastroenterologists retire in the next two decades.” 

Physician burnout – about 45 percent of gastroenterologists reported burnout in 2023 – and the disruption in services, screening and treatment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have also taken their toll. 

Gastroenterologist Demand

Adding to the equation is the fact that 40 percent of patients needing care from gastroenterologists are 60 years old or older – and that age group is growing at a rapid pace! Plus, there’s a growing number of young adults being screened and diagnosed with colorectal cancer, which means gastroenterologists are now caring for an even larger population. While some gastroenterologists may see 25 patients a week, others may see close to 125!  

In this environment, gastroenterology locums are emerging as an important resource for hospitals, clinics and health centers as they work to provide seamless GI care.  

Responsibilities and Skills

Locum gastroenterologists – just like their traditional counterparts – specialize in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as IBS, diverticulitis, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, stomach ulcers and colorectal polyps, while also treating conditions involving the liver, bile ducts, pancreas and gallbladder. Gastroenterologists also play an important role in diagnosing, staging and treating cancers associated with the gastric system. 

All gastroenterologists must have extensive medical knowledge and surgical skills as well as proficiency in various scoping procedures and radiologic interpretation. 

It’s not surprising then, that while the average yearly salary for gastroenterologists is $243,173, the average yearly salary for a locum gastroenterologist is $379,519 – or $182/hour. 

In addition to the required medical knowledge, surgical skills and medical testing needed to become a gastroenterologist – as well as extensive training – the role also requires a variety of other skills such as communication, problem-solving and empathy. But most of all, they possess a scientific mind, an innate curiosity and a desire to help their patients achieve a better quality of life. 

SUMO Medical Staffing has a proven track record in helping healthcare professionals find locum jobs that best fit their specific needs. Our staffing representatives are ready to discuss your career goals and future. Request a consultation with a locum tenens staffing specialist today.