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The oncology job market is undergoing significant shifts, shaped by advances in cancer care, a growing patient population, and evolving healthcare delivery models. For Oncologists—whether you're just starting your career or reevaluating your professional path—understanding these changes is crucial. How strong is the current demand? What subspecialties are poised for growth? And what challenges might shape the future of oncology? This guide unpacks the key trends driving the Oncologist job outlook, offering actionable insights to help you navigate opportunities and prepare for the future in this dynamic and vital specialty.
Career opportunities in oncology are a vital consideration for both individual professionals and organizations shaping the future of cancer care. For medical students, residents, and practicing Oncologists, understanding job trends within oncology plays a key role in career planning, from selecting specialties to advancing in the field. At the same time, medical centers, health systems, and healthcare staffing agencies can use insights into the Oncologist job market to address workforce shortages, improve recruitment strategies, and meet patient care demands.
The demand for Oncologists continues to rise, driven by several key factors reshaping the field. First, the aging population is a significant contributor. As life expectancy increases, so does the incidence of cancer, leading to a growing need for specialists like medical Oncologists and hematologist-oncologists to provide both diagnostic expertise and cutting-edge care.
Additionally, rapid advancements in cancer treatments—such as immunotherapy, precision medicine, and targeted therapies—require highly trained physicians who can navigate complex treatment protocols and incorporate these innovations into patient care. These advancements aren't just enhancing outcomes; they’re also expanding the scope of oncology, increasing the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce.
Demand for Oncologists varies widely by location, creating unique opportunities across the country. Urban areas like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago often see high demand due to their large medical centers, research facilities, and diverse, high-volume patient populations. These hubs frequently require specialists across various oncology fields, driven by advancements in cancer care and steady referral streams.
Rural regions, however, face significant shortages of cancer specialists, particularly in states like Montana, Wyoming, and parts of the Midwest and Southeast. Patients in these areas often have to travel long distances for care, creating critical gaps in access. Rural practice presents meaningful career opportunities, often paired with competitive compensation, loan repayment programs, and other incentives for those willing to fill critical gaps either permanently or by accepting temporary "locum tenens" assignments.
Emerging healthcare hubs in fast-growing states such as Texas, Florida, and Arizona are also driving demand. Population booms and investments in healthcare infrastructure in cities like Austin, Orlando, and Phoenix are fueling the need for Oncologists, offering exciting opportunities in developing markets. Whether you’re drawn to the fast pace of urban centers, the rewarding challenges of rural practice, or the growth potential in emerging hubs, geography significantly influences oncology career opportunities.
The oncology field is projected to experience steady growth over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment of physicians and surgeons is expected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033, aligning with the average growth rate for all occupations.
This projection translates to approximately 23,600 job openings annually, driven by factors such as an aging population and increased prevalence of chronic illnesses, including cancer. While the BLS does not provide specific data for oncologists, the increasing incidence of cancer and advancements in treatment suggest a sustained demand for oncology specialists.
Supporting this outlook, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has highlighted concerns about potential shortages in the oncology workforce due to factors like physician retirements and the growing number of cancer patients. ASCO's reports indicate that the demand for oncology services may outpace supply, emphasizing the need for strategic workforce planning to ensure adequate cancer care in the future.
Growth projections vary among oncology subspecialties. Medical oncology is expected to see significant expansion, driven by the increasing use of systemic therapies and personalized medicine approaches. Surgical oncology demand is anticipated to rise due to advancements in minimally invasive techniques and a focus on early detection and surgical intervention. Radiation oncology is also projected to experience growth, with the BLS reporting that employment of radiation therapists is expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to technological advancements and the expanding role of radiation therapy in cancer treatment.
Salaries can vary based on factors such as subspecialty, geographic location, years of experience, and practice setting. Although Medical Oncologists reported an average annual salary of $464,000 in 2024, most Oncologists report anywhere between $277,111 and $438,711 annually. For instance, Oncologists practicing in urban centers or regions with higher living costs may command higher salaries compared to those in rural areas. Additionally, those with specialized expertise or who engage in research and teaching may have higher earning potential. And of course, locum tenens assignments can significantly increase earning potential either through moonlighting or practicing locums full time.
The oncology workforce is grappling with a significant shortage of specialists, driven by factors such as physician retirements, burnout, and the increasing demand for cancer care. According to the ASCO, about 22% of practicing Oncologists are expected to retire within the next decade, which could exacerbate existing gaps in care. While these shortages create more opportunities for new Oncologists entering the field, they also place additional strain on practicing specialists who must manage heavier patient loads. For health systems and medical centers, strategies like hiring locum tenens providers or integrating advanced practice providers, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, have become critical to maintaining service levels and managing census fluctuations effectively.
As the demand for cancer care grows, balancing limited resources becomes an ongoing challenge for Oncologists and healthcare systems. Rising patient volumes have led to increased reliance on locum tenens physicians, who provide temporary coverage to alleviate staffing gaps. Additionally, advanced practice providers are taking on expanded roles, offering critical support in managing patient care.
Healthcare systems are also adopting innovative solutions like telemedicine, which has gained traction as a way to extend oncology services to underserved areas and streamline follow-up care. Optimization of physician workflows through better use of support staff, such as oncology-certified nurses and care coordinators, is another strategy being implemented to help alleviate the burden on Oncologists while ensuring high-quality patient care.
Today’s Oncologists have diverse career options beyond traditional clinical roles, including opportunities in research, telemedicine, and the biotech industry, where they can contribute to groundbreaking treatments and innovations. Locum tenens positions are also increasingly popular, offering competitive pay, flexible schedules, and the chance to work in varied clinical settings. These roles provide Oncologists with the unique opportunity to balance professional growth with personal priorities while addressing critical staffing needs in healthcare.
To maximize career potential, Oncologists must stay adaptable and proactive, keeping up with advancements in cancer treatments and exploring alternative practice models like locum tenens. These opportunities not only enhance skills but also provide flexibility, exposure to diverse clinical settings, and the potential to maximize compensation by staying aligned with market trends. Working with a recruiter can simplify the process of finding high-paying locum tenens roles tailored to your goals, while facilities seeking coverage can rely on Caliber to deliver staffing solutions that balance quality care with cost efficiency. Our team’s expertise in market insights ensures Oncologists and healthcare organizations are positioned for success. Reach out today to learn more!
