Projected Shortage of Allergists/Immunologists
Documented in ACAAI ‘White Paper’

There is a growing shortage of allergists/immunologists in the United States.  ACAAI estimates that the number of allergists/immunologists will decline 27% from 3,124 in 2006 to 2,279 in 2020, while demand for these physicians is projected to increase by 35%.  New and larger fellowship programs are needed in allergy and immunology to meet growing patient demand.

The College’s GME/Workforce Committee developed a white paper covering this public health crisis.  It reviews the College’s supply and demand forecast for allergists and the geographic distribution of allergy/immunology training programs.  It also summarizes the evolution of federal policies with respect to GME, outlines strategy options for solving the physician shortage and presents the College’s position on improving patient outcomes in treating allergic and immunologic diseases by increasing the number of certified allergists/immunologists. 

Unless action is taken, there will not be enough allergists to treat the growing number of patients who desperately need our care.  The response, we believe, will have to combine private and public resources.  The College is circulating a white paper to increase the circle of awareness of this critical problem, especially among federal policy makers, in the hope that concerned people working together will find solutions.

Members are also invited to review the white paper on the Web site and provide comments.

William K. Dolen, MD

ACAAI President