Head hunting in the ED

[enfuegoEP]

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I was having a conversation with a couple of EP's and the subject of reimbursement came up. They said they get paid by the number of patients they see+ RVU's. The "average" hourly pay is around 170/hr with the high being around 250/hr. They're also considered independent contractors, so they have to buy their own health insurance, retirement etc. Is this close to the average or do you take a big pay cut if you're in a private group practice? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this system?

 

[deleted109597]

I'll go out on a limb here and tell you that nobody will define their salaries. It is all secret hush hush.
But the hourly rates there seem fairly high for some parts of the world, and consistent with some other, less ideal places to live (ie, they have to recruit with cash).
My advice, find a contract lawyer when you're a senior resident so that you can figure all this stuff out. Also find an accountant.

 

[EM_Rebuilder]

I'll go out on a limb here and tell you that nobody will define their salaries. It is all secret hush hush.
But the hourly rates there seem fairly high for some parts of the world, and consistent with some other, less ideal places to live (ie, they have to recruit with cash).
My advice, find a contract lawyer when you're a senior resident so that you can figure all this stuff out. Also find an accountant.

I second what he said. Dont worry about this stuff yet. The time will come...

There are many options of payment terms and quite a range of 'pay' for EM physicians. Just do what you are going to be happy doing and regardless, you will make an ok living.

 

[USCDiver]

Also keep in mind that many groups will quote you an hourly rate or yearly salary that seems kind of low ball. But when/if you make partner you start getting a piece of the bonus pie (mmmmm, bonus pie!!) it can make a huge difference.

 

[docB]

Also keep in mind that many groups will quote you an hourly rate or yearly salary that seems kind of low ball. But when/if you make partner you start getting a piece of the bonus pie (mmmmm, bonus pie!!) it can make a huge difference.

But be careful about what they promise "down the road." Many a fresh grad has been snookered by the "Work all the nights and weekends for a few years and then we'll make you a partner." Only to get a few years down the road and no partnership. They then leave in disgust only to see the senior partner giving the "...then we'll make you a partner." pitch to another new grad.

 

[enfuegoEP]

But be careful about what they promise "down the road." Many a fresh grad has been snookered by the "Work all the nights and weekends for a few years and then we'll make you a partner." Only to get a few years down the road and no partnership. They then leave in disgust only to see the senior partner giving the "...then we'll make you a partner." pitch to another new grad.

This is just wrong and underhanded. What kind of jacka@# would do such a thing? If there's one underlying theme in this career it's "trust but verify." Whether it's a MLP telling you it's "just a headache" or a senior partner telling you it's only a matter of time before becoming a partner 🙁