With the looming election of a democrat this election, it appears that socialized medicine (or an attempt to socialize medicine). Lets put that part of the argument aside for a moment.
What would this mean for orthopaedists? Traditionally, orthopods have been compensated for their long working hours; but when salaries are slashed, will we be overworked and (grossly) underpaid? It seems like plastics & dermatology (maybe some psychiatrists) are the only fields immune to the pay cuts. The day has come where many ortho equipment reps are making more than the surgeons installing it; but the question is how much lower will we go?
I love the field and nothing would make me choose another field of medicine, but I am curious to hear the thoughts of med students, residents, & attendings on this matter.
