Medical oncology manpower training: a position statement of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

The evolution of Medical Oncology is facing its first major crisis, that of oversupply of trained oncologists. The tabulated number of certified medical oncologists does not constitute all of the physicians practicing Medical Oncology in the United States. Because of the adequate supply of medical oncologists in clinical practice, but a deficiency of academic oncologists dedicated to research careers, a reduction in training programs should emphasize those programs that lack research opportunities. These recommendations are in keeping with the report of the Long-Range Planning Committee of the American Society of Clinical Oncology of March 21, 1984. Plans to expedite these goals are being established.