A new analysis published in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery reveals persistent gender pay disparities among cardiothoracic surgeons. Researchers examined data from over 800 respondents to the 2023 Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Compensation Survey, covering cardiac, thoracic, hybrid, congenital, transplant, and vascular surgeons.
Women in cardiac surgery with 11 to 20 years of experience earn just 63–70% of their male counterparts’ salaries. Across specialties, women earn between 64% and 84% of the base salaries men receive. The disparity is even larger when total compensation—encompassing bonuses, stipends, and leadership payments—is considered.
Lead author Dr. Cherie P. Erkmen of Temple University noted that the study offers crucial context for women surgeons to discuss pay equity. “Transparency fosters collegiality, teamwork, and productivity,” the authors wrote, urging surgeons to use data from the STS survey and AAMC to advocate for fair compensation.
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