The landscape of oncology staffing is at a turning point, with 2025 poised to bring transformative changes that promise to redefine cancer care delivery.
As technology progresses, treatment methods will change, workforce dynamics will adapt to tackle significant staffing shortages, and new policies will reform operations.
Staying ahead of these trends is not just a choice but a necessity for healthcare facilities striving to maintain seamless patient care and for oncology professionals seeking rewarding opportunities.
In this article, we’ll examine the lessons of 2024 and explore the emerging trends shaping the future of cancer treatment and oncology staffing. From the rise of locum tenens to the integration of AI-driven solutions, we will present valuable insights into what lies ahead in our rapidly evolving field.
Looking Back: What 2024 Taught Us
Telehealth Found Its Place in Oncology
While in-person care remains central to oncology treatment, telehealth has become essential for consultations, follow-ups, and supporting patients in rural or underserved areas.
Clinician Burnout is Real
Burnout among oncology clinicians has significantly increased over the past decade. A survey by the American Society of Clinical Oncology revealed that 59% of oncologists reported experiencing one or more symptoms of burnout, pushing many to seek better work-life balance.
Locum Tenens Took Center Stage
Many oncologists have embraced locum tenens roles to achieve better work-life balance. At the same time, healthcare facilities have relied on this flexible staffing model as a critical solution to address ongoing oncologist shortages.
In its September update to the US Staffing Industry Forecast, SIA noted that the healthcare staffing sector experienced its first market size decline since 2010. However, locum tenens stood out as an exception, outperforming other segments and projected to grow by up to 12%, solidifying its position as the fastest-growing area in healthcare staffing.
Emerging Trends in 2025 and Beyond
Oncology experts have started to share their insights on anticipated developments in cancer care for 2025 and beyond. Let’s look at some of the most notable predictions.
Looming Oncologist Shortage: Supply & Demand
The demand for oncology professionals is higher than ever. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, experts predict that the US could face a shortage of more than 10,000 oncology physicians by 2030. The rising complexity of personalized cancer care is especially straining subspecialties like hematologic oncology.
Despite the broader challenges of a predicted shortage of oncology professionals by 2030, the American Society for Radiation Oncology reports that radiation oncology staffing is expected to remain steady, providing a hopeful contrast to the anticipated deficits in other oncology subspecialties.
The Shift from Inpatient to Outpatient Care
Advancements in immunotherapy and targeted therapies have made cancer treatment less toxic and more efficient, driving a shift from inpatient to outpatient care. In addition to a rise in cancer cases, particularly among younger patients, Dr. Jeffrey Lee, MD Anderson's Chief Medical Executive and interim CEO, noted that facilities increasingly treat patients in outpatient settings for procedures once reserved for hospitals. Enhanced support systems for managing side effects and symptoms outside the hospital drive this trend, improving patient comfort and better care outcomes.
Technology Integration
Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics enable facilities to forecast staffing needs, identify gaps, and streamline recruitment processes. For example, hospitals using AI have achieved more than 90% accuracy in predicting patient volumes, allowing for more precise labor budgets and hiring plans. Leveraging these technologies will enable facilities and staffing firms to facilitate faster and more accurate placement of highly qualified professionals, minimizing staffing gaps and reducing overtime expenses.
Policies and Regulations
Regulations will continue to play a significant role in staffing. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have finalized a 2.83% reduction in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2025, with an estimated 4% decrease specifically for medical oncology. This adjustment may impact oncology practice revenues and influence staffing and resource allocation.
Locum Tenens Growth Continues
With an aging workforce and the ongoing physician shortage, locum tenens staffing will remain a key strategy for addressing immediate gaps. This model ensures facilities can maintain quality care in the short term while recruiting for long-term positions.
Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
Healthcare organizations increasingly emphasize hiring diverse teams to better reflect and serve their communities. The American Hospital Association notes that a diverse workforce enhances understanding of local patient populations, improving decision-making and positively affecting patient experience, safety, and quality.
Similarly, HealthLeaders Media reports that numerous hospitals and health systems have intensified their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, recognizing that a workforce mirroring the community's diversity can lead to better patient care and health outcomes.
Rising Demand for Oncology NPs and PAs
The increasing involvement of advanced practice providers in oncology care is well-documented. The Oncology Nursing Society highlights the anticipated shortage of oncologists and the growing number of cancer survivors, which have led to a greater reliance on APPs to meet patient needs.
Additionally, a report from OncLive projects a deficit of 1,487 oncologists by 2025, emphasizing the critical role APPs will play in bridging this gap.
Telehealth in Workforce Management
The integration of virtual technologies in oncology has significantly enhanced flexibility in professional collaboration and patient care. Oncology professionals are increasingly participating in virtual multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTMs), which facilitate comprehensive patient care discussions without the constraints of physical presence. A study published in BMC Health Services Research reports that MDTMs can occur in person, virtually, or in a hybrid format, reinforcing the adaptability of oncology teams to virtual environments.
Virtual consultations have also become prevalent, enabling healthcare providers to conduct patient assessments and follow-ups remotely. The Mayo Clinic Health System notes that telehealth has become an essential component of care for many cancer patients, extending care options regardless of geography.
These developments have accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a rapid shift to virtual platforms to maintain continuity of care. The increased adoption of virtual consultations and meetings has led to more flexible work environments for oncology professionals, allowing for remote collaboration, continuous professional development, and patient interactions beyond traditional clinical settings.
2025: How Oncology Staffing Will Shape The Future of Cancer Treatment
As oncology continues to evolve, staffing will remain critical to delivering exceptional patient care and meeting future challenges. The opportunities to make a meaningful impact are immense, from addressing workforce shortages to adapting to shifts in cancer care delivery and leveraging innovative technologies.
Whether you’re a facility administrator seeking to build a resilient and dynamic team or a clinician pursuing rewarding career opportunities, Cancer CarePoint stands ready to assist. With more than 30 years of experience and a commitment to personalized, high-touch staffing solutions, we’re here to help you achieve your goals and thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Contact us today and take the next step toward success.
