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News
Millions of Americans lack local access to a surgeon, according to a sweeping new analysis by the American College of Surgeons and UNC. Over 15 million people live in counties with no general surgeon, and nearly 10 million have no specialty surgeon nearby. Researchers are calling on policymakers to expand training programs, reform non-compete laws, and boost rural reimbursement to close the gap.
A landmark analysis from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the University of North Carolina has mapped surgical workforce supply across every U.S. county for the first time — and the picture isn't pretty. More than 15 million Americans live in counties with no general surgeon, while nearly 10 million have no specialty surgeon at all. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons and unveiled at the ACS Clinical Congress 2026, also found that 434 critical access hospitals sit in rural counties with zero full-time surgeons on record.
The national average stands at 59.2 surgeons per 100,000 people, but that figure masks enormous regional disparities. Researchers caution that some concentration is intentional, as high-volume surgical centers tend to produce better outcomes. Still, with an aging population driving rising demand, the current workforce may fall dangerously short.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: As Americans age and surgical demand grows, workforce shortages in rural and underserved areas could leave millions without timely access to critical care. The ACS is urging Congress to designate general surgery shortage areas and push for reforms in training, reimbursement, and restrictive employment contracts.
