Physician Assistant Salary Seattle

The city of Seattle, known for its thriving tech industry, stunning natural beauty, and a high cost of living, is also home to a dynamic healthcare scene. For physician assistants (PAs) considering a career move to this vibrant city, understanding the local job market, including salaries, is crucial. Physician assistants play a pivotal role in the healthcare system, providing primary and specialty care to patients under the supervision of physicians. Their salary can vary based on factors such as specialty, experience, and specific employer.

Overview of Physician Assistant Salary in Seattle

As of the latest data, the average annual salary for physician assistants in Seattle, Washington, is significantly higher than the national average. This is due to the city’s high cost of living, the demand for healthcare services, and the overall economic conditions of the region. On average, a physician assistant in Seattle can expect to earn around 115,000 to over 140,000 per year, depending on their specialty and level of experience.

Specialty-Specific Salaries

Salaries for physician assistants can vary widely depending on their specialty. Here’s a breakdown of average salary ranges for different specialties in Seattle:

• Primary Care: 110,000 - 130,000 per year. Primary care PAs work in family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics, providing routine care and managing chronic conditions.
• Surgical Specialties: 120,000 - 150,000 per year. PAs in surgical specialties assist in operations, provide pre- and post-operative care, and may work in specialties like orthopedic surgery, general surgery, or cardiothoracic surgery.
• Emergency Medicine: 125,000 - 160,000 per year. Emergency medicine PAs work in emergency departments, treating acute injuries and illnesses.
• Dermatology: 115,000 - 140,000 per year. Dermatology PAs diagnose and treat skin conditions, perform minor procedures, and may assist in cosmetic dermatology procedures.
• Orthopedics: 120,000 - 150,000 per year. Orthopedic PAs work with patients who have musculoskeletal disorders and injuries, assisting in surgeries and providing post-operative care.

Experience-Based Salaries

Experience also plays a significant role in determining a PA’s salary. Generally, the more experience a PA has, the higher their salary will be. Here’s a rough breakdown of how experience can impact salary in Seattle:

• Entry-Level (0-2 years of experience): 100,000 - 115,000 per year. New graduates or those new to the profession start at this level, gaining experience and building their skills.
• Mid-Career (2-5 years of experience): 110,000 - 130,000 per year. At this stage, PAs have established themselves in their specialty and are taking on more responsibilities.
• Experienced (5-10 years of experience): 125,000 - 145,000 per year. Experienced PAs may lead teams, mentor new PAs, and contribute to policy and practice development.
• Senior-Level (10+ years of experience): 140,000 - 160,000 per year. Senior PAs are leaders in their field, often involved in education, research, and healthcare policy.

Factors Influencing Salary

Several factors can influence the salary of a physician assistant in Seattle, including:

• Employer Type: Salaries can vary depending on whether you work in a hospital, clinic, private practice, or academic setting.
• Certifications and Specializations: Having specialized certifications, such as those in surgical specialties or mental health, can increase earning potential.
• Education: While a master’s degree is standard for PAs, additional education or fellowships can impact salary.
• Location Within Seattle: Different neighborhoods and areas within Seattle may offer varying salaries based on the local cost of living and demand for healthcare services.

Conclusion

Physician assistants in Seattle are well-compensated for their critical role in the healthcare system. Salaries reflect the city’s high cost of living and the demand for skilled healthcare professionals. For those considering a career as a PA in Seattle, understanding these salary ranges and the factors that influence them can help in making informed decisions about education, specialty choices, and career development.