The job market for ophthalmologists in the United States

There are currently an estimated 372,400 ophthalmologists in the United States. The ophthalmologist job market is expected to grow by 11.4% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are ophthalmologists?

CareerExplorer rates ophthalmologists with an A- employability rating, meaning this career should provide great employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 43,400 ophthalmologists. That number is based on 42,300 additional ophthalmologists, and the retirement of 1,100 existing ophthalmologists.

Are ophthalmologists in demand?

The foreseeable job outlook for ophthalmologists is very optimistic. Several factors are contributing to growth in the field. Firstly, an aging population is expected to increase demand for treatment of cataracts; glaucoma; and age-related changes to the back of the eye, including macular degeneration. Furthermore, this increased demand for services is not being met by an increase in ophthalmology graduates. In the United States, the number of new ophthalmologists entering the field out of residency has stagnated. Contributing to the probable shortage is an expected high rate of retirement of older ophthalmologists, which account for a significant percentage of current practitioners. Technology is also having an effect on this occupation. On the one hand, advancements are allowing physicians to be more productive and may temper the predicted high demand for eye doctors. On the other hand, however, technology continues to expand the number of patients whose conditions can be treated. Added need for these professionals will occur as nearly all health plans cover medical eye care and many cover preventative eye exams. Overall job prospects, therefore, will remain very strong. The manpower challenges faced by the field of ophthalmology are resulting in a call to practise differently, to convert the ophthalmic practice model to one that promotes efficiency, delegation, and a team-based approach. This would mean fewer solo practitioners, greater reliance on ophthalmic technicians, and increased collaboration with optometrists. Subspecialties experiencing elevated shortages include pediatric ophthalmology and the very complex discipline of neuro-ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists willing to work in rural areas or other locations with limited access to specialized medical care will enhance their employability. Some experienced ophthalmologists advance their careers by specializing in one disease or disorder, such as detachment of the retina. Others become professors or researchers at teaching hospitals or universities, or combine this work with a private practice. Professional enhancement typically includes publishing articles in respected medical journals, such as the Journal of the American Medical Association.

What’s the supply of ophthalmologists?

The ophthalmologist industry is concentrated in New York, California, Pennsylvania

Ophthalmologist job market by state