Orthopedic surgeons and radiologists are among the most likely physicians to accumulate significant wealth, while rheumatologists and pediatricians lag far behind, according to Medscape’s 2026 “Physician Wealth and Debt Report.”
The survey of nearly 6,000 physicians found that more than one-third of orthopedic surgeons have a net worth exceeding $5 million, roughly four times the share seen in rheumatology, where just 9% reach that threshold.
Here are 10 specialties with the highest percentage of physicians with more than $5 million in net worth:
- Radiology: 39%
- Orthopedics and orthopedic surgery: 39%
- Cardiology: 35%
- Anesthesiology: 31%
- Plastic surgery: 29%
- ENT: 27%
- OB-GYN: 25%
- Urology: 25%
- General surgery: 25%
- Gastroenterology: 24%
Here are 10 specialties with the lowest percentage of physicians with more than $5 million in net worth:
- Rheumatology: 9%
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation: 10%
- Pediatrics: 10%
- Family medicine: 11%
- Critical care: 12%
- Psychiatry: 12%
- Dermatology: 13%
- Neurology: 14%
- Hematology and oncology: 14%
- Diabetes and endocrinology: 15%
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.