A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the healthcare of infants, children, and adolescents, typically up to the age of 18. They are responsible for providing medical care to children, including preventive care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and managing chronic medical conditions.
Pediatricians perform routine checkups to ensure children are developing properly and meeting milestones, and they may also provide vaccinations, prescribe medications, and refer patients to specialists as needed.
The work of pediatricians is critical because children have unique medical needs that differ from those of adults. They are also more vulnerable to certain diseases and illnesses, making early detection and treatment crucial for their health and well-being. Additionally, pediatricians often work with families to provide education and support, making them essential members of the healthcare team.
The salary of pediatricians reflects the value and importance of their work. Like other medical professionals, pediatricians undergo years of education and training to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to provide quality care. Their salaries also help attract and retain qualified professionals to the field, ensuring that children have access to the best possible medical care.
Factors that affect pediatrician’s salary
There are several factors that can affect the salary of a pediatrician, including:
- Geographic location: Salaries for pediatricians can vary widely depending on the cost of living and demand for their services in different regions of the country.
- Type of employer: Pediatricians may work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, locums, or other healthcare settings. The salaries and benefits offered by these employers can vary widely.
- Years of experience: Pediatricians with more experience and seniority may earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out in their careers.
- Specialty area: Pediatricians may specialize in a particular area of medicine, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology. Those with specialized training may command higher salaries.
- Patient volume: Pediatricians who see a high volume of patients may earn more than those with a smaller patient load.
- Board certification: Pediatricians who are board-certified may earn higher salaries than those who are not, as certification indicates a higher level of expertise and training.
- Insurance and reimbursement policies: Changes in insurance and reimbursement policies can affect the amount of money that pediatricians are able to earn for their services.
It’s important to note that these factors are not exhaustive and other variables may also play a role in determining what pediatrician make.
Understanding the Pediatrician Job Description
A pediatrician is a primary care medical doctor who specializes in the healthcare of infants, children, and adolescents, typically up to the age of 18. They are responsible for providing medical care to children, including preventive care, diagnose and treat illnesses, and managing chronic medical conditions.
The job responsibilities of a pediatrician may include:
- Conducting routine checkups and physical exams to monitor children’s growth and development.
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses, infections, and injuries in children, including prescribing medications and ordering medical tests as needed.
- Providing preventive care services such as vaccinations, health screenings, and counseling on healthy lifestyle habits.
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, social workers, and other physicians, to ensure comprehensive care for patients.
- Monitoring and managing chronic medical conditions in children, such as asthma, diabetes, and developmental disorders.
- Providing education and support to children and their families on health and wellness topics, including nutrition, safety, and disease prevention.
- Maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.
- Referring patients to specialists as needed for further evaluation and treatment.
Overall, pediatricians play a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of children. They provide comprehensive medical care to help children stay healthy, identify and manage illnesses and medical conditions, and ensure that they are meeting developmental milestones.
Types of pediatricians
There are several common types of pediatricians who specialize in specific areas of pediatric healthcare. Some of the most common types include:
1. Neonatologists: These pediatricians specialize in caring for newborn infants, particularly those who are premature, critically ill, or have complex medical conditions.
2. Pediatricians: General pediatricians provide primary care for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing a wide range of medical needs and promoting overall health and development.
3. Pediatric subspecialists: These pediatricians have completed additional training in specific areas of pediatric medicine, such as pediatric cardiology, pediatric gastroenterology, pediatric neurology, pediatric oncology, and many others. They focus on diagnosing and treating specific medical conditions in children.
4. Pediatric surgeons: These pediatricians specialize in performing surgical procedures on infants, children, and adolescents, addressing a range of surgical needs, including congenital abnormalities, trauma, and diseases requiring surgical intervention.
5. Pediatric allergists/immunologists: These pediatricians specialize in diagnosing and managing allergies, asthma, and immune system disorders in children.
6. Pediatric endocrinologists: These pediatricians focus on diagnosing and treating hormone-related disorders in children, such as diabetes, growth disorders, and thyroid problems.
7. Pediatric pulmonologists: These pediatricians specialize in diagnosing and managing respiratory disorders in children, including asthma, cystic fibrosis, and other lung diseases.
These are just a few examples, as there are many other subspecialties within the field of pediatrics, allowing pediatricians to provide specialized care based on the specific needs of their young patients.
Similar jobs that work with children (physician assistant, etc.)
Average Pediatrician Salary in 2023
According to the Medscape Physician Compensation Report 2022, the average annual salary for pediatricians in the United States was $225,000 in 2021. It’s important to note that this data is from 2021 and may not reflect current or future salary trends. Salaries for pediatricians may vary based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and the type of employer.
National average pediatrician salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2020, the national average annual salary for pediatricians was $183,240. However, it’s important to note that this is a national average and salaries for pediatricians can vary widely depending on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and the type of employer. In addition, this data is from 2020 and may not reflect current or future salary trends.
Average pediatrician salary by state
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2020, the average annual salary for pediatricians varies by state. Here is a breakdown of the average pediatrician salary for the states you mentioned:
- California: $214,700
- New York: $198,280
- Florida: $197,040
- Alaska: $243,220
- Utah: $197,280
- Wisconsin: $198,790
- New Hampshire: $232,760
- Minnesota: $212,660
It’s important to note that these figures are based on BLS data from 2020 and may not reflect current or future salary trends. Additionally, salaries for pediatricians can vary based on factors such as years of experience, type of employer, and specialty area.
Why do certain states pay pediatricians more
There are several reasons why pediatricians may earn higher salaries in certain states. Some factors that contribute to differences in pediatrician salaries by state include:
- Cost of living: States with a higher cost of living, such as California and New York, may offer higher salaries to attract and retain skilled professionals, including pediatricians.
- Demand for services: States with higher demand for pediatric services may offer higher salaries to attract pediatricians to meet the needs of their populations.
- Specialty areas: States with a high demand for pediatric specialists, such as Alaska or New Hampshire, may offer higher salaries to attract and retain specialists in those areas.
- State-specific policies: State-specific policies and regulations can affect the salaries of pediatricians, such as Medicaid reimbursement rates, malpractice insurance rates, and state taxes.
- Market competition: The level of competition for pediatrician jobs in certain states can also impact salaries. If there are few pediatricians in a certain area, employers may offer higher salaries to attract qualified candidates.
It’s important to note that these factors are not exhaustive and other variables may also play a role in determining pediatrician salaries by state.
[Citation: Medscape Physician Compensation Report 2023]
Factors Affecting Pediatrician Salary
There are several factors that can affect a pediatrician’s salary, including:
- Geographic location: Salaries can vary widely depending on the state or region of the country in which a pediatrician works, as well as the specific city or metropolitan area.
- Years of experience: As with most professions, pediatricians’ salaries tend to increase as they gain more experience and expertise.
- Type of employer: Pediatricians can work in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, community health centers, and academic institutions. Salaries can vary depending on the type of employer.
- Specialty area: Pediatricians can choose to specialize in a particular area, such as cardiology or oncology, which may result in higher salaries due to the additional training and expertise required.
- Board certification: Pediatricians who are board certified have completed additional training and certification in a specialty area, which may lead to higher salaries.
- Patient volume: The number of patients a pediatrician sees can affect their salary, as higher patient volume can result in higher earnings.
- Insurance reimbursement rates: Pediatricians who accept insurance as payment may be affected by differences in reimbursement rates for different insurance plans and in different geographic areas.
- Economic factors: Economic factors, such as the state of the economy and the demand for pediatric services, can also impact pediatrician salaries.
It’s important to note that these factors are not exhaustive and there may be additional factors that can affect a pediatrician’s salary.
Level of education required
Becoming a pediatrician typically requires a significant amount of education and training. Here is an overview of the education and training required to become a pediatrician:
- Undergraduate education: Pediatricians typically complete a bachelor’s degree in a pre-medical field, such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. This typically takes 4 years.
- Medical school: After completing an undergraduate degree, aspiring pediatricians must attend medical school, which typically takes 4 years. During medical school, students take courses in basic sciences, anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical medicine.
- Residency: After completing medical school, pediatricians must complete a residency program in pediatrics, which typically lasts 3 years. During residency, pediatricians receive hands-on training and experience in caring for children, from newborns to young adults.
- Board certification: After completing residency, pediatricians can become board certified by passing an exam administered by the American Board of Pediatrics. Board certification is not required to practice as a pediatrician, but it can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
It’s important to note that the specific education and training requirements to become a pediatrician may vary depending on the country or region in which one practices.
Years of experience
Years of experience can play a significant role in determining a pediatrician’s salary. As with most professions, pediatricians’ salaries tend to increase as they gain more experience and expertise. A pediatrician with several years of experience may have developed a specialized skill set, a reputation for quality care, and a larger patient base, all of which can contribute to a higher salary.
According to Payscale data, the average salary for a pediatrician with 1-4 years of experience is around $164,000 per year, while a pediatrician with 5-9 years of experience can earn an average of $179,000 per year. Pediatricians with 10-19 years of experience can earn an average of $194,000 per year, while those with 20 or more years of experience can earn an average of $208,000 per year.
It’s important to note that years of experience is just one of several factors that can impact a pediatrician’s salary, and that other factors, such as geographic location and type of employer, can also play a significant role.
Job title and responsibilities
The job title of a pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of children from birth through young adulthood. A pediatrician is responsible for:
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries: Pediatricians are responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of illnesses and injuries, from the common cold and flu to more serious conditions like asthma and diabetes.
- Conducting well-child visits: Pediatricians conduct routine well-child visits to monitor a child’s growth and development, provide guidance on nutrition and physical activity, and administer vaccinations.
- Providing specialized care: Pediatricians may specialize in a particular area, such as cardiology, neurology, or oncology, and provide specialized care for children with complex medical needs.
- Communicating with parents and caregivers: Pediatricians communicate with parents and caregivers to provide guidance on caring for their child, answer questions about their child’s health, and provide education on topics such as nutrition and developmental milestones.
- Collaborating with other healthcare providers: Pediatricians may collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as nurses, social workers, and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care for children.
Overall, a pediatrician plays a critical role in the health and well-being of children, providing medical care, guidance, and support to ensure that they grow and develop into healthy adults.
Type of healthcare facility (private practice, medical center, etc.)
The salary of a pediatrician can vary depending on various factors such as the geographical location, years of experience, level of expertise, and the type of practice setting. Generally, pediatricians who work in private practices or outpatient pediatric have the potential to earn higher salaries compared to those working in medical centers or academic settings.
In a private practice, pediatricians have more control over their patient load and billing, which can contribute to higher earnings. They may also have the opportunity to establish their own patient base and build a loyal clientele over time. However, private practitioners also bear the responsibility of managing the business aspects of their practice, such as overhead costs and staff salaries.
Pediatricians working in medical centers or academic institutions often receive a fixed salary, which is typically determined by factors like their level of experience, academic achievements, and the institution’s compensation structure. Although the salaries in these settings may be more standardized, pediatricians can benefit from additional perks such as research opportunities, teaching positions, and access to specialized resources and equipment.
It’s important to note that there can be significant variation in salaries based on the region and local market conditions. Urban areas or regions with high demand for pediatric services may offer higher salaries compared to rural or underserved areas. Additionally, pediatric sub specialists who undergo further training and specialization often earn higher salaries due to their specialized expertise.
Overall, the salary of a pediatrician can range widely depending on the specific circumstances, and it is influenced by factors such as practice setting, location, experience, and specialization.
Whether the position is full-time or part-time
The type of healthcare facility in which a pediatrician works can also impact their salary. Pediatricians who work in private practices may have more control over their earnings and may earn higher salaries, while those who work in medical centers or hospitals may have more predictable salaries but may earn less overall.
[Citation: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)]
Pediatrician Salary Range in 2023
The salary range for pediatricians in 2023 will depend on several factors, including location, level of experience, type of healthcare facility, and other factors. According to Payscale, the salary range for pediatricians in the United States in 2023 is expected to be between $110,000 to $254,000 per year. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and individual salaries may fall outside of this range depending on a variety of factors.
[Citation: Medscape Physician Compensation Report 2023]
Cost of Living Comparison
The cost of living can vary widely depending on the geographic location where a pediatrician is practicing. It’s important to consider the cost of living when evaluating a pediatrician’s salary, as it can impact the purchasing power of their earnings. For example, a pediatrician earning $150,000 per year in a city with a high cost of living may have a lower standard of living than a pediatrician earning $120,000 per year in a city with a lower cost of living.
To get a sense of the cost of living comparison for pediatricians, let’s take a look at the cost of living index for a few cities in the United States, as compared to the national average (which is set at 100):
- San Francisco, CA: 269
- New York, NY: 187
- Miami, FL: 114
- Salt Lake City, UT: 99
- Minneapolis, MN: 103
- Madison, WI: 101
- Manchester, NH: 114
- Anchorage, AK: 131
These cost of living indices indicate that cities like San Francisco and New York have a much higher cost of living than the national average, while cities like Salt Lake City and Minneapolis have a lower cost of living. It’s important to consider these cost of living differences when evaluating pediatrician salaries in different locations.
Pediatricians: How far can your salary go in these states?
here’s a comparison of the average pediatrician salary to the cost of living in different cities in the top 5 most expensive and bottom 5 least expensive states to live in, based on the cost of living index:
Top 5 most expensive states:
- Hawaii:
- Honolulu, HI: Cost of living index of 194
- Average pediatrician salary: $194,850 per year
- California:
- San Francisco, CA: Cost of living index of 269
- Los Angeles, CA: Cost of living index of 170
- Average pediatrician salary: $204,295 per year
- New York:
- New York, NY: Cost of living index of 187
- Average pediatrician salary: $189,788 per year
- Massachusetts:
- Boston, MA: Cost of living index of 182
- Average pediatrician salary: $181,181 per year
- Connecticut:
- Hartford, CT: Cost of living index of 107
- Average pediatrician salary: $186,103 per year
Bottom 5 least expensive states:
- Mississippi:
- Jackson, MS: Cost of living index of 85
- Average pediatrician salary: $163,192 per year
- Arkansas:
- Little Rock, AR: Cost of living index of 87
- Average pediatrician salary: $178,142 per year
- Oklahoma:
- Oklahoma City, OK: Cost of living index of 86
- Average pediatrician salary: $178,142 per year
- West Virginia:
- Charleston, WV: Cost of living index of 89
- Average pediatrician salary: $160,411 per year
- Kentucky:
- Louisville, KY: Cost of living index of 91
- Average pediatrician salary: $172,973 per year
Overall, there is a significant difference in the cost of living between the most expensive and least expensive states. However, even in the most expensive states, pediatrician salaries are typically high enough to provide a comfortable standard of living.
[Citation: Number of Cost of Living Index]
Highest-Paying States for Pediatricians
here’s a list of the top 5 highest-paying states for pediatricians based on average annual salary, followed by the bottom 5 states:
Top 5 highest-paying states:
- California: $204,295
- Alaska: $201,900
- New Hampshire: $198,265
- Wisconsin: $196,785
- Minnesota: $195,095
Bottom 5 lowest-paying states:
- Arkansas: $178,142
- Oklahoma: $178,142
- Mississippi: $163,192
- West Virginia: $160,411
- Montana: $159,303
It’s important to note that while these states have lower average salaries for pediatricians, the cost of living may also be lower, which can impact the overall standard of living.
Compared to the national average
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, the median annual wage for pediatricians was $184,410. However, it’s important to note that this figure represents the overall median wage for pediatricians and doesn’t take into account variations based on practice setting or experience.
To compare pediatrician salaries to the national average, it’s helpful to consider the average wage across all occupations. According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for all occupations in May 2020 was $56,310. Based on this comparison, pediatricians tend to earn significantly higher salaries compared to the national average.
Future of pediatrician salaries
The future of pediatrician salaries is difficult to predict, as it will depend on various factors such as economic conditions, demand for healthcare services, and government policies related to healthcare. However, it is possible that advances in technology and changes in the healthcare industry could impact the role and compensation of pediatricians in the future.
Citation:
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)