Is the median salary for PTs inflated?

[lee9786]

It seems that salary data is not consistent. Here are my resources

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos080.htm

http://www.indeed.com/salary?q1=Physical+Therapist&l1=21505

http://www.allalliedhealthschools.com/faqs/ptsalary.php

It seems to me that PTAs have a much better income/debt ratio. It seems they're making only $15 -$20k/year less than PTs with only just an associates.

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[callmecrazy]

It seems to me that PTAs have a much better income/debt ratio. It seems they're making only $15 -$20k/year less than PTs with only just an associates.

Following this logic, wouldn't the PT still come out ahead? If a PT and PTA graduated the same year and lived the same lifestyle, that "extra" 15-20k the PT makes would have their debt paid off in no more than 10 years. (That's assuming the higher end of tuition; most wouldn't need that long). During that time, the PT and PTA would be living on the same salary, and after that time, the PT would be living on 15-20k more per year. It's not instant gratification, no, but the PT is definitely going to have higher income overall. Think about how much money 15-20k/year is; that's easily the mortgage on a $250k house.

 

[lee9786]

Following this logic, wouldn't the PT still come out ahead? If a PT and PTA graduated the same year and lived the same lifestyle, that "extra" 15-20k the PT makes would have their debt paid off in no more than 10 years. (That's assuming the higher end of tuition; most wouldn't need that long). During that time, the PT and PTA would be living on the same salary, and after that time, the PT would be living on 15-20k more per year. It's not instant gratification, no, but the PT is definitely going to have higher income overall. Think about how much money 15-20k/year is; that's easily the mortgage on a $250k house.

Yes you're right. thanks for the response. I've been hearing/reading about PT turnover however after 5-10 years being in the profession. I'd like to find out why they are turning over... which will be my next thread.

 

[PREMEDWOAHS]

not to mention the potential for salary increase is much higher than that of a PTA. You have a metaphorical roof over your head as a PTA - no where to go, other than back to PT school.

 

[lee9786]

not to mention the potential for salary increase is much higher than that of a PTA. You have a metaphorical roof over your head as a PTA - no where to go, other than back to PT school.

absolutely right. didn't think of that one either. thanks