Results of a Nationwide Practice Survey of Orthopaedic Traumatologists.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the current practice setting, clinical metrics, and reimbursements for orthopaedic traumatologists in the United States.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Nationwide survey of orthopaedic traumatologists.

PARTICIPANTS

Orthopaedic traumatologists with an active clinical practice.

RESULTS

Five-hundred three orthopaedic traumatologists responded to the survey request. A plurality of respondents practiced in an academic setting (48%), with a majority in practice 10 years or less (54%), and having achieved the untenured (89%) rank of assistant professor (37%). For those within private groups, 62% had achieved "partner" status, generally within 1-3 years (53%) of employment. Most surgeons (85%) reported access to a dedicated orthopaedic trauma room, providing nearly all surgeons (97%) with a first start case on weekdays, but only 55% with a first start on weekends. The greatest degree of ancillary support came from physician assistants (80%). Orthopaedic traumatologists most often reported working between 51 and 70 hours per week (66%), with 4-6 nights of call/month (43%), 1 clinic day/week (42%), and with the majority of clinical volume (>75%) related to managing traumatic injury. More than half (53%) of respondents received compensation for call. Annual case volumes and wRVU varied widely. Commonly, respondents had 100% of their salary guaranteed (48%), and most reported eligibility for additional revenue through production bonuses (70%). Three subgroup analyses by years in practice, practice setting, and physician sex provider further insight into clinical characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this nationwide survey provide insight into the current clinical status of orthopaedic traumatology. Providers may find this information useful in job searches and contract negotiations.