-3%: Orthopedic surgeons’ average annual salary decreased by 3% from 2023 to 2024. While the drop is not dramatic, it could signal future trends.
5,050: A deficit of over 5,000 orthopedic surgeons is expected to hit the U.S. in 2025.
2.83%: In November, CMS finalized a 94-cent (2.83%) conversion factor decrease from 2024. The physician fee schedule conversion factor for 2025 is $32.35, down from $33.29 in 2024. Physicians and medical groups have expressed concern over the decrease in reimbursements, sharing that year-over-year decreases are proving unsustainable for many.
56.5: The average age of orthopedic surgeons in the U.S. is over 55. With many surgeons reaching retirement age, shortages could worsen.
4%: Following private equity acquisitions, the expenditure per patient rises about 4% at orthopedic practices. Now, over 50% of orthopedic practices nationwide are backed by private equity partners. As this number continues to rise, so, too, could costs.
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