If you are a Physician Assistant exploring new employment opportunities, understanding the competitive compensation landscape is crucial. Physician Assistants working in specialties outside of primary care generally report higher earnings than their general medicine counterparts. Over time, these pay differences can significantly impact your financial trajectory. Here’s a look at the top-paying PA specialties based on the latest data from the NCCPA’s 2023 Statistical Profile of Certified Physician Assistants by Specialty survey.
1. Cardiovascular Surgery
Cardiovascular Surgical Physician Assistants continue to top the earnings chart, with an average annual salary of $152,000. These PAs not only earn the highest salaries in the field but also manage some of the most demanding schedules, with significant on-call duties and operating room hours. The financial rewards are well-deserved, given the intense workload and specialized skills required in this specialty.
2. Dermatology
Physician Assistants specializing in dermatology earn an impressive $144,000 annually. These PAs enjoy high job satisfaction and treat a large number of patients—sometimes exceeding 120 patients per week. Dermatology remains a popular and lucrative specialty, offering a balanced combination of high pay and patient interaction.
3. Emergency Medicine
PAs in Emergency Medicine see a steady increase in earnings, with an average salary of $137,000. The high-intensity, fast-paced environment of emergency care demands quick decision-making and broad medical knowledge, justifying the high compensation for these professionals.
4. Neurosurgery
Neurosurgical PAs earn an average of $135,000 annually. While only a small percentage of PAs choose this specialty, those who do are rewarded with significant financial compensation. Neurosurgery requires long hours and frequent on-call responsibilities, reflecting the critical nature of the work involved.
5. Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic Surgery continues to be a popular choice among PAs, with over 12,000 PAs working in this specialty. The average salary in Orthopedic Surgery has risen to $130,000 annually. This specialty involves extensive surgical care, including peri-operative patient management and a demanding schedule, making the compensation highly attractive.
*Originally posted on 8/7/2022. Last updated on 8/26/2024.