How much does an oncologist earn?

Oncology is a demanding medical specialty, focused on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers. After our oncologist métier fact sheet, this article focuses on the rémunute;ration of the oncologist in 2024. We'll look at determining criteria, current salary ranges and make a few international comparisons.

Factors influencing oncologists' salaries

The salary of oncologistsdepends on several criteria:

• Expérience: as in many medical specialties, experience has a direct influence on the level of remuneration. An oncologist with several years' practice, particularly if he or she has mastered advanced techniques such as immunotherapy or precision radiotherapy, will be able to command a higher salary.
• Location: oncologists practicing in large conurbations often enjoy higher rents than their colleagues in rural areas. This is due to higher demand, greater population density and a higher cost of living.
• Status: oncologists can practice as libéraux or salaried. Freelance oncologists set their own fees and can therefore achieve higher incomes, while salaried oncologists enjoy the security of a fixed salary and benefits.
• Spécialité: spécialization in certain areas of oncology, such as hémato-oncology (treatment of blood cancers) or pédiatric oncology, can influence salary levels. These specialties require specific skills that can be rewarded with a more attractive salary.

Average salary for oncologists

The salary of an oncologist depends on several factors such as experience and practice status. Here are some average estimates:

• Salaried oncologist: a salaried oncologist earns between 5,000 and 10,000 euros gross per month at the start of a career. With experience, salaries can rise to 12,000-15,000 euros gross per month, particularly for heads of department in large hospitals.
• Freelance oncologist: the income of freelance oncologists depends on their turnover, with a percentage of remuneration representing around 40% to 50%. This means that income can exceed 15,000 euros gross per month, but varies according to the patient and the fixed costs associated with the activity.

Spécialisation et competétences des oncologues

Specialization is a major asset to the income of an oncologist. For example, a radiation oncologist, who has mastered the use of advanced radiotherapy techniques, can offer a higher income than a generalist oncologist. In addition, the mastery of specific skills, such as managing the complex side effects of treatments or participating in clinical trials, reinforces the oncologist's value on the job market, enabling him or her to apply for better oncologist job offers.

Avantages et indemnités complémentaires

Oncologists enjoy various benefits depending on their practice status:

• Libre oncologists: these practitioners run their own practices, enabling them to set their fees according to the care provided. Although their income may be higher, they are subject to a certain degree of variability, and have significant expenses, such as practice rent, staff costs and medical equipment.
• Salaried oncologists : salaried oncologists working in public or private hospitals enjoy a stable salary, job security and benefits such as paid leave and comprehensive health coverage. Their income may be lower than that of freelancers, but the financial risks are lower and administrative management simpler.

In reality, thesalary outlook for oncologistsis generally positive, thanks to continuing demand and the high degree of specialization required. Whether in the freelance or salaried sector, oncology remains a career that offers numerous financial and professional opportunities.

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