Explore Careers
Physicians and Surgeons
Explore Careers
Physicians and Surgeons
Health ScienceService Branches with this Role
What do Physicians and Surgeons do in the Military?
Where do Physicians and Surgeons work?
Physicians and surgeons work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.
How much do they make?
Median Military Salary
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$123,123
Military Salary Range
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$26,415 - $356,862
How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Set based on rank and years of service.
- Paid every month.
Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.
- Tax-free payments.
- Varies by location and family status.
Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.
- Based on specialized roles.
- Varies by position and duty.
What training do Physicians and Surgeons gain in the Military?
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for physicians and surgeons primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Advanced courses and programs in medical specialties are available, as well as residency and fellowship programs, access to sophisticated technologies, research methods, and opportunities to consult with leading military and civilian researchers, in addition to other professional growth opportunities such as attending professional development courses, research seminars, and academic conferences. In addition, scholarships for advanced medical training are available in return for an obligated period of military service. Qualifying students benefit through unique training experiences and get to attend certain military short courses designed to develop tactical, technical and operational skills unique to the military environment. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:
- Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety/TeamSTEPPS® Essentials and Fundamentals
- Aviation/Field Medicine
- Mishap Investigation and Prevention
- Operational Aeromedical Problems
- Senior Leadership
- Joint Operations Medical Management
Military Training for Enlisted Service members
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
What skills help Physicians and Surgeons succeed?
- Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
- Desire to help others