Physiatrists and physiatry employers often ask me about the current trends in PM&R. What follows is some information about the trends in physiatry fellowships and specialization, the evolution of the physical medicine and rehabilitation setting, and compensation and employment preferences.
Fellowship and Specialization Trends
Spine fellowships remain popular among physiatry residents, with physical medicine and rehabilitation employers increasingly seeking physiatrists skilled in radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulators, and regenerative therapies. Meanwhile, fewer anesthesiologists are pursuing pain fellowships, drawn instead to better opportunities in general anesthesia.
Sports medicine continues its rapid expansion as one of the fastest-growing medical specialties in the U.S., according to HealthGrades. Neurorehabilitation fellowships in PM&R are now available. Positions are specifically seeking physiatrists experienced in concussion management and long COVID treatment.
Interest in non-interventional fellowships is resurging, particularly in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI). Additionally, newer fellowship programs in areas such as cancer rehabilitation are gaining traction in the physical medicine and rehabilitation field.
Practice Setting Evolution
The PM&R healthcare landscape is shifting toward subacute and skilled nursing facilities as inpatient stays become shorter. Telemedicine has emerged as a viable option for the physical medicine practice. Younger physiatrists increasingly seek to integrate lifestyle medicine into their work.
Compensation and Employment Preferences
Salary expectations have evolved significantly. Most physiatrists now want guaranteed salaries, and even independent contractors are seeking income guarantees. Simultaneously, PM&R employers are placing greater emphasis on productivity metrics.
If you are seeking a physiatry practice opportunity or wanting to add a PM&R doctor, please contact us.