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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
26:41
Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
The future of neurology
W David Freeman1, Kenneth A Vatz
1Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 4500 San Pablo Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA. freeman.william1@mayo.edu
Neurologic Clinics
|March 6, 2010
Summary
Neurology is evolving with new technologies and research, facing training challenges but anticipating increased demand for neurologists due to an aging population. Telemedicine may bridge care gaps in underserved areas.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Medical Education
Background:
- Neurology traditionally relies on neurologic examination.
- 21st-century advances include neurosurgery, endovascular techniques, neuropathology, neuroscience research, and neuroimaging.
- These advances offer new dimensions to the field of neurology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current state and future outlook of neurology.
- To examine challenges in neurology residency training.
- To project the future job market for neurologists.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent surveys and trends in neurology.
- Analysis of governmental regulatory changes and economic pressures on training programs.
- Assessment of the impact of aging population demographics on neurological disease prevalence.
Main Results:
- Increased demand for neurologists is projected, driven by an aging population and neurological disease prevalence.
- Neurology residency training faces significant regulatory and economic challenges.
- Telemedicine presents a viable solution for delivering specialist care to underserved regions.
Conclusions:
- The future of neurology is shaped by technological advancements and demographic shifts.
- Addressing training program challenges is crucial for meeting future workforce needs.
- Expanding access to neurological care through telemedicine is essential for underserved populations.
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