ANESTHESIA ZONE

Job Outlook for Anesthesiologists

With advances in healthcare technology leading to increased longevity and savvy consumers seeking "quality-of-life" elective medical procedures, the job market for anesthesiologists is expected to grow at a faster-than-average rate through the middle of the next decade, according to the latest projections from the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, recent reports of shortages of all types of healthcare professionals will continue to drive growth in the field of anesthesiology, as will the aging population of qualified physicians who are moving toward retirement.

Due to the growth in the field, the practice of anesthesiology has changed immensely in the last decade and will continue to evolve. In addition to a need for qualified professionals in a traditional hospital setting, there is an increased need for anesthesiologists in outpatient surgical settings. Anesthesiologists continue to be drawn to the growing field of pain management medicine as Americans are living longer, more active lives, and refuse to accept pain as a natural part of aging.

Anesthesiologist Salary Information

Anesthesiologists are some of the highest-paid physician specialists in the field of medicine. Salaries can vary greatly by geographic region, type of facility, number of years in practice and sub-specialty. Anesthesiologists earn, on average, a salary of approximately $300,000 annually, and can expect to earn upwards of $450,000 with experience. Many anesthesiologists receive a bonus in addition to salary, and anesthesiologists working in specific areas such as cardiology or pediatrics are paid at a premium.

Locum Tenens Anesthesiologist Pay Rates

Due to the current shortage of qualified anesthesiologists, physicians accepting locum tenens assignments can receive excellent pay. While the pay rates vary by assignment, anesthesiologists average about $1,200 per day and up to $1,350 for cardiac cases or pediatrics. This amounts to $6,000-6,750 per week on assignment. In addition to excellent pay, locum tenens can enjoy the additional benefits of traveling to new places, experiencing different practice settings and keeping a flexible schedule.

If you are a physician exploring your career options, search our anesthesiology jobs to find a great practice opportunity.

Sources: United States Department of Labor, Salary.com