The orthopedic surgery position at WellStar Spalding Hospital offers a highly competitive and rewarding compensation package designed to attract top talent. The package begins with a substantial base salary ranging from $500,000 to $550,000 annually, with the exact figure dependent on the candidate's fellowship training and experience. Surgeons with total joint fellowship training, for instance, may be offered a higher base salary within this range. Beyond this base, the compensation structure incorporates significant performance-based incentives tied to Relative Value Units (RVUs), a standard measure of physician productivity in healthcare.
For general orthopedic surgeons with total joint fellowship training, the RVU threshold is set at 7,500 per year, while sports medicine specialists have a slightly higher threshold of 8,000 RVUs. These thresholds serve as benchmarks for calculating additional compensation beyond the base salary. Based on these metrics, the earning potential is substantial. In the first year, total cash compensation is estimated to reach around $600,000. By the second year, this figure is projected to increase to between $640,000 and $650,000. Impressively, at the 75th percentile of productivity, total cash compensation could soar to $850,000 to $860,000. It's worth noting that by producing at the 65th percentile, a surgeon has the potential to earn well over the 75th percentile in terms of compensation, indicating a favorable productivity-to-compensation ratio.
The contract includes a 1-2 year guarantee period, providing financial stability during the initial phase of practice establishment. During this time, the physician is assured of receiving the agreed-upon base salary regardless of productivity, with the option to transition to the full compensation plan earlier if desired. The package also includes a flexible sign-on bonus, the amount of which is negotiable, and a $20,000 relocation allowance to assist with moving expenses. Additionally, WellStar offers a standard value and finance bonus of 15% of the base salary, which is part of their system-wide compensation structure.
Complementing the direct financial compensation is a comprehensive benefits package. This includes health, dental, and vision insurance, malpractice insurance with tail coverage, a retirement plan (likely including options like a 401(k) with employer match), a Continuing Medical Education (CME) allowance with time off, and Paid Time Off (PTO) for vacation, sick leave, and personal days. There's also an opportunity to earn extra compensation by taking additional call shifts beyond the required 7 days per month.