Orthopedic surgeons work hard to earn their degrees and titles. Acceptance to medical school is highly competitive and the training required is difficult. An orthopedic surgeon has chosen to further his education and to specialize in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. After he has completed his education, a period of paid training known as residency ensues. After residency is completed a certification is administered and the doctor becomes a member of a medical board. Like other doctors, bedside manner is important. Orthopedists treat and diagnose illness in patients, prescribe medicine and perform surgery. It's a job that requires long hours, but along with the title, there are plenty of benefits.

Salary

Orthopedic surgeons enjoy a very high salary range. The starting salary with less than two years experience is more than $250,000. That isn't including bonuses and according to salary.com, the median salary for an orthopedic surgeon is more than $403,000 a year. The time and money invested in schooling is well worth it.

Hiring trends are up, especially in urban areas where populations are more dense. Prospects with the most hiring potential will be aware of new technology and treatments in the field.

Field of Interest

An orthopedic surgeon has the option of choosing a specialty within the field. She may specialize in the treatment of a specific body part such as the hand. This narrow specialty requires more study, and as with any doctor, she must keep up with technological advances in the field.

People of Interest

An orthopedist may also choose to work with a certain age group. A geriatric orthopedist prefers elderly people and a pediatric orthopedist likes to work with children. Specialty doctors such as these generally own their own practice and therefore work set hours. This differs from hospital orthopedists who remain on call and work long uncertain hours.

Time Off

An orthopedic surgeon can look forward to at least four weeks of paid vacation each year and typically has the added benefit of taking four weeks of sick leave.

Membership Benefits

Another benefit that orthopedic surgeons enjoy is the ability to become a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. This membership allows them to network with members from around the world and gives them the opportunity to continue their training. These associations give doctors the platform to write about their work and offer advancement in their field. Their writings are reviewed by peers in the field. Doctors gain notoriety when they make significant findings and contribute to advancements in their field.