Should I Choose Anesthesiology?
Real decision-making data from 22 verified Anesthesiology physicians. Here is what they actually think.
The Verdict
An overwhelming 85% of Anesthesiology physicians say they would choose the specialty again -- a strong endorsement.
What Physicians Love About Anesthesiology
“I enjoy getting to do cool procedures like nerve blocks and spinal anesthesia. And I like not being on call and when I’m done with work no one is bothering me. ”— Anesthesiology Physician
What to Watch Out For in Anesthesiology
“It is a difficult job requiring a broad skill set and dealing with high risk patients. Can be very stressful. Leadership is supportive but usually not very responsive to making recommended changes. Staffing can be very tight at times and workload can be very high on a daily basis. Cover residents or crnas 30% of the time and work solo 70% of the time. flow could be improved with better staffing. Also very inefficient operating rooms which is never addressed by hospital leadership. ”— Anesthesiology Physician
Work-Life Balance Reality in Anesthesiology
“I enjoy being able to have my time at home and not have to take any load home with me ”— Anesthesiology Physician
“I am independent contractor anesthesiologist and interventional pain management doctor. I work any days and hours I want with ability to take extra call for extra money. My contract is 500/hr in conjunction with a home beeper stipend of 2000/day just to be available. I can take as much vacation I want and any requested days off however I take off an average of 6 weeks a year.”— Anesthesiology Physician
“Pays the bills at this point a little burned out with 2nd child on the way but husband is in tech and helps around with it”— Anesthesiology Physician
How Anesthesiology Compares
See how Anesthesiology stacks up against other popular specialties.
| Specialty | Satisfaction | Would Choose Again |
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Negotiation Tips From Anesthesiology Physicians
“After doing 1099 locums, I could never go back to W2 employed. When you are W2 you get a set salary but the hospital can milk you for every dollar, and your hourly rate is generally half or less than that on 1099 hourly model. Even the days and weekends I work late or overtime I am extremely satisfied because I know im getting paid for that time. ”— Anesthesiology Physician
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anesthesiology worth it?
Based on 22 verified physician responses, Anesthesiology physicians report 3.8/5 average satisfaction and 85% say they would choose the specialty again. Average total compensation is $541K. Whether it is worth it depends on your priorities, but the data suggests most physicians are satisfied with their choice.
What's the work-life balance like in Anesthesiology?
Anesthesiology physicians work an average of 54 hours per week. One physician shared: "I enjoy being able to have my time at home and not have to take any load home with me "
How much do Anesthesiology physicians make?
Based on SalaryDr data, Anesthesiology physicians earn an average total compensation of $541K. With an average of 54 hours per week, that translates to roughly $193/hour.
Still deciding? Hear from more Anesthesiology physicians
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