What the Shortage of Oncologists Means for Cancer Treatment

Discover the impact of the oncologist shortage on cancer treatment in major U.S. cities. Learn how this critical issue affects patient care and explore potential solutions.
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Concerning trends for oncologists and cancer care.

A number of major United States cities are at risk for oncology shortages as discovered through a 2017 survey. The Association of Community Cancer Centers polled 293 program directors and providers from 209 cancer treatment centers nationwide. They found that 47 percent reported vacancies for medical oncologists, showing that organizations are struggling to fill these specialist roles.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in America, which creates a high demand for oncologists across the country. In fact, the American Society of Clinical Oncology has often documented the need for young oncologists to fill the gaps left by retiring oncologists or those leaving due to burnout. With what seems like an impending shortage of oncologists, there could be an impact in care and even delays in patient treatment.

Sources: OncLive, The American Society of Clinical Oncology.

See how locum tenens can help your facility combat staffing shortages and impact your bottom line.

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Federal facts for you.

We are a Federal Supply Schedule Contract holder. 

Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) Contract: 36F79723D0086, Professional and Allied Healthcare Staffing, effective March 15, 2023, through March 14, 2028.

NAICS Codes:
  • 561320: Temporary help services. 
  • 621111: Offices of physicians. 
  • 621112: Offices of physicians, mental health specialists. 
  • 621399: Offices of all other miscellaneous health practitioners. 
  • 621330: Offices of mental health practitioners.

Privileging.

Once you and our client agree to move forward with your assignment, our privileging team will assist you and the client in gathering information required by the healthcare facility to grant clinical privileges.

1

We contact the facility’s Medical Service Office (MSO) for their application and requirements.

2

We will assist you by pre-populating the facility’s application and sending to the MSO.

3

We will assist the MSO by following up on requested items.

4

MSO will grant privileges based on your training and experience, and you will be able to start your assignment.

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Maggie Youmans

Executive Vice President

As Executive Vice President, Maggie Youmans leads specialty divisions, Sales Development, and the Enterprise and VMS teams. With more than 14 years of healthcare staffing leadership experience, she drives sales and recruiting strategy, develops high-performing leaders, and advances initiatives that support growth and customer success.  

A recognized voice in healthcare staffing, Maggie has served as a panelist at the Staffing Industry Analysts Healthcare Staffing Summit and contributed workforce planning insights to Becker’s Hospital Review. Her leadership experience spans specialty, enterprise, and VMS/MSP business lines, giving her a broad perspective on workforce strategy and organizational growth.  

Maggie earned dual BBA degrees in Marketing and Management from the University of Georgia and graduated magna cum laude. Outside of work, Maggie loves traveling, exploring new destinations, restaurants, and experiences with her husband and daughter.  

Connect with Maggie on LinkedIn.