Population growth, especially for the elderly and aging, contributes to the need for more physicians, but some specialties are overstocked. Demand for chiropractors is related to the ability of patients to pay for services and to public acceptance of the profession, which appears to be growing. Changes in the population size and structure are expected to boost demand for restorative dentistry along with a growing public awareness that regular dental care helps prevent and control dental disease. The growth and changing structure of the population along with a rising per capita income and greater recognition of the importance of vision care are major factors underlying anticipated job growth. Podiatric medicine continues to gain recognition as a health profession, causing more people to turn to podiatrists for foot care.
Cardiovascular procedure continues to increase, while few formal training programs exist.
Review the information in the Cardiovascular Technology section of this book for additional information. Most jobs are found in drugstores and hospitals, sectors that are expected to experience slower growth than in the past. The areas of rehabilitation and long term care are anticipating growth along with an expansion of services for people with physical disabilities. A 1989 U.S. Government report predicts that there will be 39,000 new physical therapy career opportunities by the year 2000. However, a limited number of programs makes admission competitive.