so how much are endocrinologists making these days?

[Sharpie1]

...And is anyone here interested in endo? Is it getting harder to get a fellowship in endo? I know a few years ago It was reported to be easy, is that still the case?

I'm a second year, want to figure out what I want to do, just realized I like endocrinology, but do I really want to do a two year fellowship for what it seems like is not much more pay than IM? Is there anyone out there who went through the same struggle?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[adam6]

Like most fellowships, endocrine spots are becoming harder to obtain. Additionally, there is plenty of stiff competition for spots in top programs (naturally). However, finding a clinical fellowship spot at a less-prestigious institution should not be difficult. I love the field, so I can go on and on about endocrine...but I'll spare you
Regarding compensation, I am in the middle of interviewing for positions so am familiar with this. Of course, pay depends upon your career goals:

1. Academics (at a top place): low $100s (sometimes even 5 figures)
2. Private practice: saturated city market ~$150K starting
3. Private practice: suburban ~$200K avg, range $150-300K (seriously) +/- sign-on bonus (up to 30K) +/- relocation (~15K)

These salaries (for private practice) represent guaranteed salaries and after 1-2 years you are transitioned to productivity-based (so it may go up or down depending upon you). There is a general shortage of endo docs nationwide - so I receive ~4 recruitment phone calls/week + ~4 recruitment emails/day.

The higher the salary in private practice = the more you'll work.
The more prestigious the academic institution = the lower the salary

Given the nature of endocrine, there are plenty of opportunities to combine research and clinical practice. Additionally, a number of endos go into industry and make a nice living.

Hope this helps!

 

[josephf1]

I would say pound for pound most specailties are not worth the extra time spent for the money. Consider also 2-3 yrs losing 100-150K+ per year, thats money you may never see again. May get better lifestyle, more prestige, but bottom line no one cares who you are or what you do so its do what you like vs go for cards/GI and make more money. Keep in mind VIP docs with 500 pts charging each one 1500 a year retatianer are makine a million and thats with only 3 yrs IM. Way more than the specialists.

 

[adam6]

I would say pound for pound most specailties are not worth the extra time spent for the money. Consider also 2-3 yrs losing 100-150K+ per year, thats money you may never see again. May get better lifestyle, more prestige, but bottom line no one cares who you are or what you do so its do what you like vs go for cards/GI and make more money. Keep in mind VIP docs with 500 pts charging each one 1500 a year retatianer are makine a million and thats with only 3 yrs IM. Way more than the specialists.

I agree that choosing most IM specialties for purely monetary reasons is not smart. However, if it is something you love, it is worth it to pursue a career that will enjoy. Not only do I love endo, I have no interest in being a hospitalist or treating musculoskeletal complaints/colds/chronic pain/etc etc - so I'm very happy with my choice despite the lack of financial benefits.

Regarding boutique/VIP medicine...I could be wrong, but most internists cannot expect to graduate from residency and expect people to pay you a retainer right off the bat
There may be exceptions, but I believe that many will have to "pay-the-dues" (ie: put in the time), establish a patient base, and then transition to this type of practice. But I'm sure this is a whole, separate, big discussion.

 

[Sharpie1]

does anyone have any ideas on how the healthcare reform will affect endo?

 

[old_boy]

VIP docs with 500 pts charging each one 1500 a year retatianer are makine a million

...might want to check your math.