How Many Healthcare Workers Are in the United States?

The U.S. healthcare workforce is a vital pillar of public health, providing essential services across hospitals, clinics, and community care. As of 2025, over 28 million health care workers deliver care to nearly 340 million residents. This number includes doctors, nurses, therapists, and support staff, reflecting a complex and evolving ecosystem shaped by population growth and medical needs.

Total Healthcare Workforce Count

Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates place the U.S. healthcare workforce at approximately 28.3 million full-time equivalent workers. This figure includes a mix of clinical professionals—such as registered nurses, physicians, and nurse practitioners—and allied health roles like medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, and home health aides. The total has grown steadily since 2020, driven by aging demographics and increased demand for care, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Key Roles and Their Proportions

Breaking down the workforce by occupation reveals distinct patterns:

• Registered Nurses (RNs): The largest group, making up about 29% of the total—roughly 8.2 million professionals. RNs dominate hospital and long-term care settings, supporting patient care across all levels.
• Physicians and Surgeons: Account for about 12%, totaling around 3.4 million. This includes family medicine doctors, specialists, and surgeons serving diverse patient populations.
• Allied Health Workers: The remainder—nursing assistants, physical therapists, pharmacists, and technicians—comprise over 50%, reflecting growing emphasis on preventive and outpatient care.

Persistent Shortages and Regional Gaps

Despite expansion, critical shortages remain. The BLS projects a shortfall of over 400,000 nurses and 100,000 physicians by 2030, with nursing assistant roles facing the steepest deficit. Rural regions and inner-city underserved zones face the most acute gaps, where workforce density falls below national averages by 30–40%. Factors include burnout, limited training access, and uneven geographic distribution. The pandemic accelerated these challenges, highlighting the need for strategic workforce planning and retention incentives.

Impact of Policy and Workforce Trends

Recent policy shifts, including expanded funding for community health programs and loan forgiveness initiatives, aim to strengthen the pipeline. Telehealth growth has also expanded roles for remote care providers, improving access and flexibility. Additionally, diversity in the workforce is increasing—current data shows non-Hispanic White workers decline as Hispanic and Black professionals rise, enhancing cultural competency and trust in care delivery.

Call to Action: Understanding the size and structure of the U.S. healthcare workforce empowers patients, policymakers, and aspiring caregivers. Stay informed, support local health initiatives, and consider contributing to the sector through education or advocacy—your role matters in building a resilient, equitable care system.