Recruiting in today’s healthcare landscape requires a deep understanding of provider shortages and how they shape hiring trends. As the demand for primary care and psychiatric specialists continues to rise, recruiters must adapt to attract and retain top candidates.
Healthcare Shortages
Physician and advanced practice (AP) recruitment is driven by market demand, and in the U.S., the most sought-after specialties remain:
Top 5 In-Demand Physician Medical Specialties
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Psychiatry
- OB-GYN
Top 5 In-Demand Nurse Practitioner Medical Specialty Areas
- Family Care
- General Care
- Adult Care
- Psychiatric Care
- Acute Care
Where is the Demand?
Several metro areas across the country experienced double-digit Physician job growth in 2018. These cities included:
- Tucson, Arizona
- Los Angeles, California
- Chicago, Illinois
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Baltimore, Maryland
Rural areas continue to experience critical shortages in healthcare providers. As with larger metro areas, small-town America's biggest demands stem from their shortages in Primary Care Practitioners.
Shortages Put the Candidate in the Driver's Seat So Bring Your A Game
Be Responsive – In today’s job market, candidates expect quick communication. Delays in follow-ups, job offers, or contract negotiations can result in lost talent. Recruiters who provide timely responses and clear updates stand a better chance of securing top candidates.
Think Beyond Money – Today's Physician candidates are looking for more than money, they are looking for benefits. In a tight, competitive market, offering a few extra benefits can help you edge out the competition. Think outside the box by offering loan repayment, signing bonuses, CME allowances or relocation allowances. These added benefits may initially cost you extra money but can save you a lot in the long term when you retain a quality hire.
As physician and AP shortages persist, recruiters must refine their strategies to remain competitive. Using data-driven sourcing tools, attending physician career fairs, and providing tailored incentives can help healthcare organizations attract top talent.
Need help finding qualified physicians and advanced practice providers? PracticeMatch offers industry-leading physician sourcing tools, virtual career fairs, and targeted recruitment solutions to connect you with the right candidates. Learn more today!
*Originally posted on 5/26/2020. Last updated on 1/15/2025