☰
✕

Markets

Insider Trading

Hedge Funds

Retirement

Opinion

Premium

Lists-News

15 Least Competitive Medical Specialties in America

Published on December 9, 2023 at 7:39 pm by Afifa Mushtaque in Lists, News

In this article, we will look at the 15 least competitive medical specialities in America. We have also discussed the state of the healthcare industry in the US. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the 5 Least Competitive Medical Specialities in America. 

Choosing a medical speciality involves a combination of factors like personal interest, aptitude, and the duration of training. Among primary care options, Family Medicine and Internal Medicine are generally considered easiest medical specialties to study, with relatively shorter residencies compared to some other specialities. Moreover, Emergency Medicine is the medical speciality that takes the least amount of time. 

It is also worth mentioning that programs in primary care specialities like Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics are some of the easiest specialities to match into for International Medical Graduates (IMGs). On the other hand, Plastic Surgery, Dermatology, and Neurosurgery are the most competitive medical specialties in the US. 

Before getting into our list of the least competitive medical specialities in the US, let’s explore the current state of the healthcare industry in the US.  

State of Healthcare in the US

A recent Harris Poll revealed that over 70% of US adults believe the healthcare system is falling short of meeting their needs. Despite the US spending more per capita on healthcare than other developed countries, the survey of approximately 2,500 adults, conducted from February to March 2023, highlighted widespread dissatisfaction. More than half of respondents graded the US healthcare system a “C” or below, citing factors such as high costs (the most common criticism), profit-driven focus, insurance inaccessibility, and confusion about coverage. Notably, 44% admitted to skipping or delaying needed care in the past two years, with 40% attributing it to costs.

Interestingly, amid these challenges, the survey identified some positive sentiments. Over 75% of participants noted that providers collaborate to improve their health, 70% expressed a desire for stronger relationships with their healthcare providers, and more than 65% believed regular engagement with a trusted provider could improve their health. Despite frustrations, these responses suggest a nuanced perspective on the healthcare system’s potential improvement. However, these issues do not stop here.

A recent survey by the Commonwealth Fund also revealed alarming trends in American healthcare, with around 79 million Americans (41% working-age Americans) facing medical bill issues in the past year. Shockingly, this rate is the highest among nine developed countries analyzed. Even high-income Americans are almost as likely as lower-income individuals in other nations to defer healthcare due to costs, with 29% admitting to skipping or delaying care. This places the US at a disadvantage, especially considering that other developed countries with universal health coverage exhibit significantly lower rates of delayed or skipped care among high-income populations, ranging from 6% to 16%.

Companies Committed to Healthcare Access

As the fall and winter seasons approach, health officials are anticipating a challenging period with a potential increase in viral illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Notably, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an important recommendation that allows adults aged 60 and older to receive an RSV vaccine if deemed appropriate by their healthcare provider. This is crucial in preventing severe respiratory infections in older adults and marks a positive development in combating RSV-related complications. 

McKesson Corp (NYSE:MCK), a major distributor of seasonal flu vaccines, is actively supporting the distribution and administration of vaccines targeting influenza, RSV, and the updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2023-2024 season. Health Mart pharmacies, part of McKesson Corp (NYSE:MCK)’s network, are positioned as accessible and trusted healthcare providers that provide a destination for individuals to receive these vaccines as they become available in communities across the US.

In addition to addressing RSV concerns, McKesson Corp (NYSE:MCK) is also been active in the commercialization of COVID-19 vaccines. The company is handling the distribution of single-strain commercial vaccines from Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE), Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:MRNA), and Novavax, Inc (NASDAQ:NVXA) for the upcoming season. This involves direct purchase through wholesale distributors, similar to the distribution of flu vaccines, with McKesson Corp (NYSE:MCK) collaborating with vaccine manufacturers to meet customer demand and ensure proper storage conditions. 

On the other hand, as artificial intelligence has been at the forefront of industrial transformation , several healthcare companies have been exploring the potential of AI. Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:AMGN), a leading biotechnology company, has entered into a collaborative venture with Amazon Web Services, Inc (AWS), a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) to capitalize on generative AI for accelerating advanced therapies. This partnership aims to improve the discovery, development, and manufacturing throughput of medicines, catering to patients with serious illnesses.  Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:AMGN)’s collaboration with AWS extends beyond AI, incorporating the use of Amazon SageMaker for building, training, and deploying machine learning models. The companies are implementing cutting-edge digital and robotic technologies, which includes a connected digital platform on AWS, to optimize manufacturing processes at Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:AMGN)’s upcoming facility in Columbus, Ohio. This facility will feature real-time data analytics, predictive maintenance capabilities, and the integration of machine vision systems.

Moreover,  Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:AMGN) has also teamed up with PostEra for a major AI-driven drug discovery venture. In a deal worth $50 million upfront and $1.9 billion for successful outcomes,  Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:AMGN) and PostEra plan to advance up to five small molecule programs using PostEra’s AI platform.

A doctor and a scientist in a laboratory standing in front of a wall of medical equipment.

Our Methodology

In compiling our rankings of the least competitive medical specialities in America, we analyzed the National Residency Match Program (NRMP) outcomes for medical residency applicants. Our assessment primarily considered the average USMLE Step 1 scores of US seniors (MD/DO), arranging them in descending order.

In instances where average scores were identical, we further examined the scores of International Medical Graduate (IMG) applicants, both from the US and other countries. A lower average score for IMG applicants was given precedence. 

Here is a list of the least competitive medical specialities in America. 

15. Diagnostic Radiology

Average US Senior Score: 244

Diagnostic radiology is a medical specialty that uses imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to diagnose and treat diseases. Radiologists interpret medical images to guide patient care. It is one of the least competitive residencies for International Medical Graduates (IMGs). 

14. Vascular Surgery

Average US Senior Score: 244

Vascular surgery specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the blood vessels, such as arteries and veins. The average salary for a Vascular Surgeon is $266774 per year 

13. Radiation Oncology

Average US Senior Score: 240

Radiation oncology is a medical speciality that employs ionizing radiation to treat cancer. Radiation oncologists use precise techniques to target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. It is one of the least competitive medical specialities in 2023. The average salary for a Radiation Oncologist is $167,029 per year 

12. Anesthesiology

Average US Senior Score: 236

Anesthesiology is a medical speciality focusing on perioperative patient care. The average salary for an Anesthesiologist is $318,500 per year in the United States. It is one of the highest-paid medical specialities in the world. 

11. General Surgery

Average US Senior Score: 235

General surgery is a medical speciality encompassing a broad range of surgical procedures. General surgeons diagnose, treat, and manage different conditions, performing surgeries on organs and tissues, excluding specific areas like the brain and heart. The average salary for a Surgeon is $298341 per year in the United States.

10. Internal Medicine

Average US Senior Score: 232

Internal medicine is a medical speciality focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatment of adult diseases. Internal medicine is often considered one of the most underrated medical specialities. The average salary for an Internal Medicine Physician is $282992 per year in the United States.

9. Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Average US Senior Score: 231

Obstetrics and Gynaecology is a medical speciality dedicated to women’s reproductive health. Obstetricians manage pregnancies, childbirth, and postpartum care, while gynaecologists focus on the female reproductive system, addressing issues like menstrual disorders, infertility, and gynaecological cancers. Together, they provide comprehensive care for women throughout different stages of life. The average salary for an Obstetrician/Gynecologist is $212959 per year in the US. It is one of the best medical specialties for female doctors and moms.

8. Emergency Medicine

Average US Senior Score: 231

Emergency Medicine is a medical specialty that involves the prompt diagnosis and management of acute illnesses and injuries. The average salary for an Emergency Medicine Physician is $217226 per year in US. It is one of the top 10 least competitive medical specialities in America.

7. Neurology

Average US Senior Score: 230

Neurology is a medical speciality dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the nervous system. Neurologists focus on conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases. The average salary for a Neurologist is $253485 per year in United States.

6. Physical Medicine and Rehab

Average US Senior Score: 230

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) is a medical specialty that aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life for individuals with physical impairments or disabilities. The average Physical Medicine and Rehab Physician salary in the United States is $258,390. It is one of the least competitive residencies in America. 

Click here to see the 5 Least Competitive Medical Specialities in America.

Suggested Articles:

Disclosure: None. 15 Least Competitive Medical Specialities in America is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Show more...

AI, Tariffs, Nuclear Power: One Undervalued Stock Connects ALL the Dots (Before It Explodes!)

Published on June 23, 2025 at by Inan Dogan, PhD

Artificial intelligence is the greatest investment opportunity of our lifetime. The time to invest in groundbreaking AI is now, and this stock is a steal!

AI is eating the world—and the machines behind it are ravenous.

Each ChatGPT query, each model update, each robotic breakthrough consumes massive amounts of energy. In fact, AI is already pushing global power grids to the brink.

Wall Street is pouring hundreds of billions into artificial intelligence—training smarter chatbots, automating industries, and building the digital future. But there’s one urgent question few are asking:

Where will all of that energy come from?

AI is the most electricity-hungry technology ever invented. Each data center powering large language models like ChatGPT consumes as much energy as a small city. And it’s about to get worse.

Even Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, issued a stark warning:

“The future of AI depends on an energy breakthrough.”

Elon Musk was even more blunt:

“AI will run out of electricity by next year.”

As the world chases faster, smarter machines, a hidden crisis is emerging behind the scenes. Power grids are strained. Electricity prices are rising. Utilities are scrambling to expand capacity.

And that’s where the real opportunity lies…

One little-known company—almost entirely overlooked by most AI investors—could be the ultimate backdoor play. It’s not a chipmaker. It’s not a cloud platform. But it might be the most important AI stock in the US owns critical energy infrastructure assets positioned to feed the coming AI energy spike.

As demand from AI data centers explodes, this company is gearing up to profit from the most valuable commodity in the digital age: electricity.

The “Toll Booth” Operator of the AI Energy Boom

  • It owns critical nuclear energy infrastructure assets, positioning it at the heart of America’s next-generation power strategy.
  • It’s one of the only global companies capable of executing large-scale, complex EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) projects across oil, gas, renewable fuels, and industrial infrastructure.
  • It plays a pivotal role in U.S. LNG exportation—a sector about to explode under President Trump’s renewed “America First” energy doctrine.

Trump has made it clear: Europe and U.S. allies must buy American LNG.

And our company sits in the toll booth—collecting fees on every drop exported.

But that’s not all…

As Trump’s proposed tariffs push American manufacturers to bring their operations back home, this company will be first in line to rebuild, retrofit, and reengineer those facilities.

AI. Energy. Tariffs. Onshoring. This One Company Ties It All Together.

While the world is distracted by flashy AI tickers, a few smart investors are quietly scooping up shares of the one company powering it all from behind the scenes.

AI needs energy. Energy needs infrastructure.

And infrastructure needs a builder with experience, scale, and execution.

This company has its finger in every pie—and Wall Street is just starting to notice.

Wall Street is noticing this company also because it is quietly riding all of these tailwinds—without the sky-high valuation.

While most energy and utility firms are buried under mountains of debt and coughing up hefty interest payments just to appease bondholders…

This company is completely debt-free.

In fact, it’s sitting on a war chest of cash—equal to nearly one-third of its entire market cap.

It also owns a huge equity stake in another red-hot AI play, giving investors indirect exposure to multiple AI growth engines without paying a premium.

And here’s what the smart money has started whispering…

The Hedge Fund Secret That’s Starting to Leak Out

This stock is so off-the-radar, so absurdly undervalued, that some of the most secretive hedge fund managers in the world have begun pitching it at closed-door investment summits.

They’re sharing it quietly, away from the cameras, to rooms full of ultra-wealthy clients.

Why? Because excluding cash and investments, this company is trading at less than 7 times earnings.

And that’s for a business tied to:

  • The AI infrastructure supercycle
  • The onshoring boom driven by Trump-era tariffs
  • A surge in U.S. LNG exports
  • And a unique footprint in nuclear energy—the future of clean, reliable power

You simply won’t find another AI and energy stock this cheap… with this much upside.

This isn’t a hype stock. It’s not riding on hope.

It’s delivering real cash flows, owns critical infrastructure, and holds stakes in other major growth stories.

This is your chance to get in before the rockets take off!

Disruption is the New Name of the Game: Let’s face it, complacency breeds stagnation.

AI is the ultimate disruptor, and it’s shaking the foundations of traditional industries.

The companies that embrace AI will thrive, while the dinosaurs clinging to outdated methods will be left in the dust.

As an investor, you want to be on the side of the winners, and AI is the winning ticket.

The Talent Pool is Overflowing: The world’s brightest minds are flocking to AI.

From computer scientists to mathematicians, the next generation of innovators is pouring its energy into this field.

This influx of talent guarantees a constant stream of groundbreaking ideas and rapid advancements.

By investing in AI, you’re essentially backing the future.

The future is powered by artificial intelligence, and the time to invest is NOW.

Don’t be a spectator in this technological revolution.

Dive into the AI gold rush and watch your portfolio soar alongside the brightest minds of our generation.

This isn’t just about making money – it’s about being part of the future.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your investment life!

Act Now and Unlock a Potential 100+% Return within 12 to 24 months.

We’re now offering month-to-month subscriptions with no commitments.

For a ridiculously low price of just $9.99 per month, you can unlock our in-depth investment research and exclusive insights – that’s less than a single fast food meal!

Here’s why this is a deal you can’t afford to pass up:

  • Access to our Detailed Report on our AI, Tariffs, and Nuclear Energy Stock with 100+% potential upside within 12 to 24 months
  • BONUS REPORT on our #1 AI-Robotics Stock with 10000% upside potential: Our in-depth report dives deep into our #1 AI/robotics stock’s groundbreaking technology and massive growth potential.
  • One New Issue of Our Premium Readership Newsletter: You will also receive one new issue per month and at least one new stock pick per month from our monthly newsletter’s portfolio over the next 12 months. These stocks are handpicked by our research director, Dr. Inan Dogan.
  • One free upcoming issue of our 70+ page Quarterly Newsletter: A value of $149
  • Bonus Content: Premium access to members-only fund manager video interviews
  • Ad-Free Browsing: Enjoy a month of investment research free from distracting banner and pop-up ads, allowing you to focus on uncovering the next big opportunity.
  • Lifetime Price Guarantee: Your renewal rate will always remain the same as long as your subscription is active.
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: If you’re not absolutely satisfied with our service, we’ll provide a full refund within 30 days, no questions asked.

Space is Limited! Only 1000 spots are available for this exclusive offer. Don’t let this chance slip away – subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter today and unlock the potential for a life-changing investment.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Head over to our website and subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter for just $9.99.

2. Enjoy a month of ad-free browsing, exclusive access to our in-depth report on the Trump tariff and nuclear energy company as well as the revolutionary AI-robotics company, and the upcoming issues of our Premium Readership Newsletter.

3. Sit back, relax, and know that you’re backed by our ironclad 30-day money-back guarantee.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Subscribe now and take control of your AI investment future!


No worries about auto-renewals! Our 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee applies whether you’re joining us for the first time or renewing your subscription a month later!

Insider Monkey Ads

A New Dawn is Coming to U.S. Stocks

Published on June 13, 2025 at by Insider Monkey Staff

I work for one of the largest independent financial publishers in the world – representing over 1 million people in 148 countries.

We’re independently funding today’s broadcast to address something on the mind of every investor in America right now…

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

Here to answer that for us… and give away his No. 1 free AI recommendation… is 50-year Wall Street titan, Marc Chaikin.

Marc’s been a trader, stockbroker, and analyst. He was the head of the options department at a major brokerage firm and is a sought-after expert for CNBC, Fox Business, Barron’s, and Yahoo! Finance…

But what Marc’s most known for is his award-winning stock-rating system. Which determines whether a stock could shoot sky-high in the next three to six months… or come crashing down.

That’s why Marc’s work appears in every Bloomberg and Reuters terminal on the planet…

And is still used by hundreds of banks, hedge funds, and brokerages to track the billions of dollars flowing in and out of stocks each day.

He’s used this system to survive nine bear markets… create three new indices for the Nasdaq… and even predict the brutal bear market of 2022, 90 days in advance.

Click to continue reading…

Insider Monkey Ads
Related Insider Monkey Articles
12 Stocks Billionaire Larry Robbins Just Bought and Sold
5 Best Diabetes Stocks to Buy Now
18 Best-Performing Dow Stocks in 2023
Billionaire Steven Cohen’s Top High Dividend Stock Picks
20 Most Valuable Healthcare Companies in the World
15 Best Drug Stocks To Invest In
Insider Monkey Quarterly Strategy
+373.4% Insider Monkey Quarterly Strategy
+154.9% Benchmark50% S&P 500 ETF and 50% Russell 2000 ETF
300%
200%
100%
Subscribe Now

Returns since its inception in May 2014 (through February 19th, 2025)

Lists
Home Hedge Funds Markets Blog Site Map
Authors About Us Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use FAQ CCPA - Do Not Sell My Information
All text and design is copyright © 2025 InsiderMonkey.com. All rights reserved.