Workforce shortages in breast imaging: impact on mammography utilization.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to develop reliable forecasts of the future supply of radiologists and radiologic technologists practicing mammography under different assumptions about future introduction of new practitioners. In addition, this article includes basic mammography workforce statistics to provide a context for the forecasts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The forecasts were developed using an age cohort flow model based on data provided by the American College of Radiology (ACR) on the numbers and age distribution of radiologists and on data provided by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) on radiologic technologists providing mammography services.

RESULTS

The forecasts show that the current rates of production of new mammography professionals will result in dramatic reductions in mammography professionals per woman age 40 years old and older over the next 15-20 years.

CONCLUSION

Unless the number of new mammography professionals entering practice every year increases beyond the current levels, there will be a growing gap between the supply of and demand for mammography professionals over the next two decades.