What can you expect to earn as a beginner doctor?
Base Salary:
- The average base salary for a first-year resident physician in the United States is around $60,000 per year, according to the American Medical Association (AMA).
- This amount can vary depending on the specialty, the location of the hospital or clinic, and other factors.
- For example, first-year residents in high-demand specialties such as radiology or dermatology may earn closer to $70,000 per year, while those in primary care specialties like pediatrics or family medicine may start at around $55,000 per year.
- Additionally, residents in areas with a high cost of living, such as New York City or San Francisco, may earn more than those in lower-cost areas.
Additional Compensation:
- In addition to their base salary, many residents receive additional compensation, such as:
- Meal stipends: to help cover the cost of meals.
- Housing allowances: to help cover the cost of rent or housing.
- Health insurance: coverage for the resident and their dependents.
- Malpractice insurance: coverage to protect the resident from legal liability.
- Continuing medical education (CME) funds: to help the resident stay up-to-date on medical knowledge and skills.
Total Compensation:
- When all of these factors are considered, the total compensation for a first-year resident physician in the United States can range from $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the specialty, location, and other factors.
It's important to note that these figures are just averages and that actual salaries can vary widely. Additionally, the salary of a beginner doctor will typically increase as they progress through residency and gain more experience.