In 2012, cardiac and thoracic surgeons in medical groups reported their lowest average annual compensation in the past four years, according to the American Medical Group Association's 2013 compensation survey.
On average, cardiothoracic surgeons in medical groups earned $525,944 last year. This is down more than 3 percent from 2011. However, their median work relative value units — or the amount of time, skill, training and intensity it requires physicians to perform a particular service — have also decreased. Compared with 2009 figures, cardiothoracic surgeons' work RVUs are down more than 12 percent.
Here are eight statistics on average cardiac and thoracic surgeon compensation from 2009 through 2012, according to the AMGA's most recent survey.
Compensation
2012: $525,944
2011: $544,087
2010: $532,567
2009: $533,084
Work RVUs
2012: 9,229
2011: 9,500
2010: 10,519
2009: 10,519
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