Do Orthopedic Surgeons Earn More or Less Than Neurosurgeons?

The question of whether orthopedic surgeons earn more than neurosurgeons can be complex and multifaceted. It involves considering not only the types of surgeries performed but also the financial models and experience of the surgeons. This article will delve into the comparative salaries of these two specialties based on recent data from reputable sources like Merrit Hawkins and the MGMA.

Income Comparison Based on Data

According to the 2018 Merrit Hawkins Review of Physician and Advanced Practitioner Recruiting Incentives, orthopedic surgeons can earn from $340,000 to $985,000 per year. This range illustrates the significant potential earnings within the field, largely influenced by factors such as experience, specialization, and the size of one's private practice. On the high end, surgeons with a large private practice and extensive experience can command much higher salaries.

The MGMA Physician Compensation Report, which reflects average and median incomes, places the average annual income for a neurosurgeon at $775,968 with a median income of $704,170. This shows that neurosurgeons have a slightly higher average and median income compared to orthopedic surgeons. Additionally, it is important to note that neurosurgeons at the lower end of the salary spectrum can still earn upwards of $350,000 annually, while the top 10 percent of earners can make up to $1,229,881. This significant disparity underscores the earning potential for neurosurgeons, particularly those in more specialized roles or with a higher volume of work.

Factors Influencing Earnings

Several factors can influence a surgeon's earnings, both for orthopedic and neurosurgeons. These include:

Volume of Procedures: Surgeons who perform a high volume of complex procedures, such as joint replacements and ligament reconstructions, can command higher rates and thus earn more. Additionally, those who conduct a high number of surgeries in a day and contribute significantly to the practice’s profitability can also earn more.

Specialization: Specialized neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons who focus on specific subspecialties, such as pediatric orthopedics, spine surgery, or skull-base surgery, may have higher earning potential due to the complexity and specific demand for their skills.

Private Practice vs. Employment: Surgeons who own their own clinics or have significant equity in their practices can earn more due to profit-sharing and other financial incentives. Conversely, those employed by large hospitals or independent practice associations (IPAs) may have less control over their earnings but can still achieve higher salaries based on their performance and contributions.

Geographic Location: The cost of living, demand for medical services, and insurance reimbursement rates can vary significantly across different geographic regions. Surgeons in areas with higher living costs or lower reimbursement rates may need to work harder to maintain the same standard of living.

Furthermore, the rising popularity of professional sports and increased participation in athletic activities has led to a higher incidence of skeletal-related injuries. While this has driven demand for orthopedic surgeons, it does not necessarily translate to a higher salary per procedure. Instead, successful orthopedic surgeons in these areas may earn more through a combination of high volume and complexity of surgeries.

Conclusion

Based on the data from Merrit Hawkins and the MGMA Physician Compensation Report, neurosurgeons tend to earn more on average than orthopedic surgeons, with both sets of surgeons seeing a range of potential incomes. However, the earning potential for both specialties is high, with the ability to earn more depending on factors such as volume of procedures, specialization, ownership of a medical practice, and geographic location. The comparative analysis highlights the importance of specialized skills and the impact of market demand on a surgeon's income.

By understanding these factors, aspiring and current surgeons can make informed decisions about their career paths and practice models, ultimately contributing to their personal financial success.