Analysis of Compensation Disparities between Junior Academic and Private Practice Vascular Surgeons

Background: Compensation may be a significant factor for academic vascular surgeons seeking or changing employment. We compared compensation for academic and private practice vascular surgeons practicing for approximately similar duration. Methods: Compensation data for academic and private practice vascular surgeons were obtained from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), respectively. Comparisons of nominal annual compensation data were made between Group 1 (assistant professor vascular surgeons versus private practice vascular surgeons in practice for 1-7 years), Group 2 (associate professor vascular surgeons versus private practice vascular surgeons in practice for 8-17 years), and Group 3 (professor vascular surgeons versus private practice vascular surgeons in practice for >= 18 years) from 2003 to 2012. Results: In Group 1, there was a $54,500 difference in 2003 (P = 0.043) which increased to $110,500 by 2012 (P = 0.001). In Group 2, there was a $44,200 difference in 2007 (P = 0.016) which increased to $53,400 by 2010 (P = 0.034). In Group 3, there was no statistically significant difference in compensation (P >= 0.999). Conclusions: There is a significant and increasing disparity in compensation in favor of private practice vascular surgeons compared with assistant professor vascular surgeon faculty. Differences equalized with increasing seniority and experience. Compensation plans should be market based and in line with nonacademic benchmarks as well.