An analysis of salary projections and job profile of a trauma surgeon is presented in this CareerStint article. Know all about this challenging profession.
The field of healthcare is fast emerging as one of the highest job providers for able candidates. Even though studying medicine in reputed universities and colleges can be more expensive, compared to other courses, the high starting salaries can make up for the initial investment. Being aware of the exact job profile of a trauma surgeon is essential, if you are planning to make a career in this field.
Job Description
Trauma surgeons have the important responsibility of treating and dealing with patients who have suffered from serious injuries and require immediate medical care. They mostly work in emergency rooms and have to be on their toes round the clock. This would require them to have high stamina and fitness levels with an extraordinary dedication to their work. They have to execute the important task of treating musculoskeletal injuries caused due to accidents.
Becoming One
- For becoming a trauma surgeon, you need to start systematic preparation, right from high school. To start with, you need to possess a bachelor’s degree in science subjects and clear the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) to enter a top medical school.
- Based on your performance, you may get an admission in schools where you can complete your basic education in medicine
- The duration of the medical school studies is of four years and a student has to study subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and psychology to become a trained professional.
- Appearing for the United States Medical Licensing Examination is essential for all medical students
- If you wish to practice medicine, then obtaining a certificate from the American Board of Medical Specialists is necessary.
Salaries
The salary largely depends on the expertise of the surgeon, years of practical experience, location of work, and type of employer. The ones with more than eight years of experience earn the most, according to salary surveys conducted by several job market experts. Surgeons working for top hospitals will naturally be making more than those working for smaller hospitals. Many times, there is a vast difference in the salaries earned by surgeons due to their varying skills. So the key is to acquire new skills in the course of work to achieve fast career growth.
According to people in the job market, salary in the US is believed to be around USD 320,000 per year which is very high, compared to several other medical jobs. Surgeons have a good and steady demand for their skills and hence are in a position to command premium salaries. At most places, the average base salaries can be in the wide range of USD 150,000 to USD 300,000 per year. Apart from this, these surgeons are also eligible to receive attractive bonuses, which can be several thousand dollars, along with attractive perks.