ABSTRACT
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to obtain information on Canadian orthopaedic trauma surgeon practices and salary demographics. It was hypothesized that most of the practicing surgeons recognize specific practice aspects (compensation, call schedule, operating room availability, and provided support staff) as key factors in employment opportunity evaluation. Design: Cross-sectional survey study. Setting: Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) practice surveys. Participants: All active Canadian members of the OTA were eligible to participate. Main Outcome Measurement: A 50-question survey was sent through email to OTA members assessing physician, practice, and compensation metrics of Canadian orthopaedic traumatologists. Results: Fifty-two of 113 Canadian OTA members participated giving a response rate of 46%. All surgeons worked in an academic practice, either for a university (83%) or community hospital (17%). Only 2% of surgeons have changed jobs in the last 5 years, and over 73% of surgeons maintain the same place of employment during their careers. Most had an available dedicated orthopaedic trauma operating room (73%). The majority indicated having residents (71%) and fellows (63%) as support staff. Many reported completing 300-500 cases per year (42%), which decreased during COVID-19 for 50% of surgeons. The most common reported compensation was between $400,000 and $600,000 US dollars (25%) with many working 4-6 call shifts a month (48%) and 51-70 hours a week (48%). Conclusion: This study demonstrated the varying practice and physician economic variables currently in Canada. The identification and continued surveillance of these employment variables will allow for transparency in job market evaluation by applicants. Level of Evidence: Level V.
ABSTRACT
As the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic evolves, it is critical to understand how patients' feelings and perceptions have changed. The aim of this study was to understand current feelings and concerns about seeking and receiving orthopaedic care 9 mo into the global pandemic. METHODS: Utilizing a survey developed to evaluate the attitudes and beliefs from healthcare respondents about receiving care during the COVID-19 pandemic, an updated and revised version, evaluating changes in perception of respondents 9 mo into the pandemic, was distributed to a group of panelists by email. RESULTS: Out of 1200 individuals, 197 (16%) completed the survey. A majority of respondents reported high level of comfort in the immediate or near-term receiving care in an orthopaedic clinic, urgent care clinic specifically for orthopaedics, or in an emergency room. Six percent of respondents reported a delay in seeking orthopaedic care despite COVID-19 concerns that occurred between studies. Respondents reported their primary reason for delaying care was because of concerns for risk of COVID-19 exposure from other patients (83%). More than 75% of respondents stated they are "extremely" or "very" likely to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available to the public. Respondents had a generally negative outlook on pandemic efforts locally to globally. CONCLUSIONS: Despite dismal overall perceptions regarding the outlook of the pandemic; consumers are becoming increasingly comfortable obtaining orthopaedic care. The ability of healthcare providers and practices to adherence to safety protocols will remain essential to maintaining consumer trust and confidence. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.