First-year enrollment at U.S. medical schools is expected to increase by 21 percent, or 3,400, to 19,900 students by 2012, according to an annual survey by the Association of American Medical Colleges.

More than 86 percent of existing medical schools have expanded the number of first-year students they take in, and nine new medical schools are under development or are being discussed, reports the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, which accredits medical education. About 800 first-year students will attend these new schools for the 2012- 13 academic year.

“Ensuring an adequate supply of U.S. physicians is essential for our nation’s health. This projected increase will help alleviate a future shortage of physicians, although we recognize it is just one part of what must be a comprehensive solution,” says Dr. Darrell G. Kirch, AAMC president and CEO.

 “As more medical school slots become open, this is an excellent time to consider a career in medicine,” he adds.

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