Orthopedics is among one of the wealthiest specialties, according to Medscape’s “Physician Wealth & Debt Report 2026.”
The report, published April 24, included data from a survey of 5,916 respondents across more than 29 specialties.
Five things to know:
1. Orthopedics and radiology were among the richest specialties with 39% of physicians in the $5 million or more wealth tier. Cardiology (35%), anesthesiology (31%) and plastic surgery (29%) were also in the top five wealthiest specialties.
2. Of all physicians, 45% expect their portfolios to grow, and 33% expect them to be stable. Only 22% expect their portfolio will decline over the next year.
3. Wealth rates for male and female physicians rose since 2024, but the wealth gap still remains.
4. Retirement accounts (38%), homes and real estate (27%) and financial investments (14%) were the most common sources of physicians’ net worth.
5. The top sources of physician debt include mortgage (59%), car loans (30%), credit card debt (28%) and student loans (22%).
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
