Aging workforce, limited REIs, increase pressure to recruit and retain talent.
Fertility clinics are facing growing staffing challenges as the demand for services continues to rise. With more people seeking infertility treatments, the need for specialized professionals, particularly reproductive endocrinologists (REIs), has intensified. However, the talent pool for these roles is limited, creating pressure on clinics to recruit and retain skilled staff.
On average, only 55 new REIs enter the job market annually, despite increasing demand for their expertise. According to Science Direct, there are approximately 1,500 board-certified REI subspecialists in the U.S., with only 1,250 in active practice. This shortage of specialists is a critical challenge for fertility clinics, especially given the growing number of infertility cases. The article notes that the average REI provider is responsible for around 233 ART cycles per year, with the ideal number being closer to 1,600 to meet demand.
"The fertility field is experiencing growing pains, and one of the main obstacles is the scarcity of specialized professionals like REIs," said Dr. Alice Domar, Chief Compassion Officer at The Prelude Network. "With an aging workforce and a limited number of REIs entering the field, we are seeing increased pressure to hire and retain top talent."
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The Growing Competition for Talent with 1.9 Million Jobs Expected Annually
The competition for fertility professionals is fierce. As more fertility clinics open to meet the rising patient demand, they are facing increased competition for a limited number of qualified candidates. Additionally, healthcare organizations are also vying for talent, which further strains recruitment efforts.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 1.9 million job openings annually across the healthcare sector in the coming years, adding to the difficulty of finding qualified staff. Fertility clinics must not only compete with other clinics but also with other healthcare providers for skilled professionals.
64% of Job Hoppers Feel Frequent Moves Boost Career Mobility and Salary
Clinics are also grappling with employee retention challenges. In today’s job market, many workers are shifting jobs more frequently, a trend that puts additional pressure on employers to improve job satisfaction. A recent Forbes report found that 64% of job hoppers feel that frequent moves have boosted their career mobility and salary, signaling a shift in worker expectations.
The normalization of job-hopping has made retention more challenging for the entire healthcare industry, including fertility clinics. Clinics must not only recruit top talent but also ensure they create a supportive and rewarding environment to retain them in the long term.
Why REIs Stay with The Prelude Network
The Prelude Network offers a unique environment where REIs thrive by combining clinical autonomy with the benefits of a larger, well-resourced organization. Physicians are empowered to make their own decisions while enjoying the stability and support of a robust national network.
Mark Montondon, President of Physician Relations at The Prelude Network, explains: "One of the key reasons physicians choose Prelude is the ability to maintain their clinical autonomy while being supported by a financially strong and resource-rich organization. They can focus on their patients without worrying about administrative burdens."
As part of a community of over 100 REIs, physicians access opportunities for collaboration, leadership, and professional growth through events like the Physician Summit and contributions to research and best practices.
With strong financial backing, Prelude ensures investments in advanced technology, high-performing laboratories, and better-managed care rates, enhancing both practice stability and patient care. Montondon adds: "Our marketing resources and nationwide reach give physicians the tools they need to expand their practices and achieve long-term success."
This mission-driven network empowers REIs to grow their practices, deliver exceptional care, and achieve professional fulfillment within a supportive, excellence-driven environment.
Looking to Take Your Career to the Next Level?
Discover the Fastest-Growing Fertility Network in North America – Your Dream Job Awaits!
Are you ready to grow in a career that matters? Join Prelude, the fastest-growing fertility network, offering exciting opportunities in clinical, administrative, and REI roles with unmatched career growth and a fantastic employee experience.
Competitive salary & benefits
Growth potential like never before
A supportive and dynamic team environment
Rewarding work that makes an impact