The U.S. is running dangerously low on pediatric endocrinologists, and kids with type 1 diabetes are feeling it most. With only 1,800–2,000 specialists for roughly 300,000 children with T1D, the ratio is about 150 patients per doctor. Low pay and limited medical school exposure are driving the shortage — but experts say mentorship could help turn the tide.
The U.S. is facing a serious shortage of pediatric endocrinologists, and children with conditions like type 1 diabetes are bearing the brunt of it. Speaking at the Breakthrough T1D Clinical and Research Congress in Philadelphia, Stanford's Dr. Tandy Aye highlighted two root causes: limited exposure to the specialty during medical training and notoriously low compensation. Between 2015 and 2025, 8%–20% of pediatric endocrinology fellowship spots went unfilled every year — a troubling pipeline problem.
The pay gap isn't helping. Pediatric endocrinologists are the lowest-paid medical specialty in the U.S., earning an average of $218,266 annually — nearly $60,000 less than their adult counterparts. A survey of Pediatric Endocrine Society members found that 84% cited salary as the most unfavorable aspect of their job.
Dr. Aye's prescription? More mentorship. She urged current specialists to invite medical students into their clinics, research labs, and even diabetes camps to spark early interest in the field.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Without a larger workforce of pediatric endocrinologists, children with complex hormonal conditions face longer wait times and wider care gaps — particularly in rural areas. Addressing this shortage is critical to ensuring equitable, timely care for the next generation.
