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Association for Academic Surgery Founder's Lecture - Addressing the Surgical Workforce Crisis: Retention Strategies
Gopika SenthilKumar1, Reagan A Collins2, Patricia Turner3
1Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The Journal of Surgical Research
|May 8, 2026
Summary
The US faces a significant surgeon shortage by 2036 due to population growth and an aging workforce. Focusing on retaining surgeons, not just recruitment, is key to addressing this crisis.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Workforce Studies
- Surgical Workforce Analysis
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- The United States anticipates a deficit of 10,000 to 19,900 surgeons by 2036.
- This shortage is attributed to population increases, an aging surgical workforce, and high attrition rates among surgeons and trainees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the critical surgeon workforce shortage in the US.
- To outline the origins and current status of the surgeon shortage.
- To propose a vision for expanding the surgical workforce through retention and strategic action.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of demographic trends in the surgical workforce.
- Review of attrition factors affecting surgeons and trainees.
- Presentation of strategies for surgeon retention and workforce expansion.
Main Results:
- The surgeon shortage is a complex issue driven by multiple demographic and professional factors.
- Retention of existing surgeons is as crucial as recruitment of new ones.
- Collaborative efforts among national surgical societies are vital for workforce sustainability.
Conclusions:
- A proactive and strategic approach focusing on surgeon retention is essential to mitigate the projected shortage.
- Supporting, valuing, and retaining surgeons will ensure the future of surgical care.
- Targeted actions and inter-societal collaboration can effectively expand and stabilize the surgical workforce.
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