![A collage illustration with various elements. In the background is a map of the United States with doctors and pins on it. In the foreground is a hand hold a diploma tied with measuring tape and student holding a megaphone.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.statnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/FINAL-Final_Specialists-Scarcity_MarianF.Moratinos-645x645.jpg)
Treatment of obesity has never been more prominent, with the advent of medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro generating both excitement and concern. Overlooked, however, is a severe shortage of doctors who actually specialize in treating obesity.
Across the United States, fewer than 100 doctors have completed a fellowship in obesity medicine and are actively practicing, according to a STAT analysis. More than half of these specialists are located across just four states — New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and California — with the majority of states not having a single one.
Given that almost 50% of the U.S. population is expected to have obesity by 2030, experts say this is the most severe patient-specialist mismatch in the country.
![STAT+](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.statnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/stat_plus_hero_new-2048x502.png)
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and networking platform access.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.
STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect