How Much Do Orthotists and Prosthetists Make?
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Orthotists and prosthetists earn an average annual salary of $80,500, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With nearly 9,000 professionals employed in this specialized health care field, these experts play a crucial role in improving patients' quality of life.
These skilled practitioners design, fabricate, and fit custom orthopedic braces and artificial limbs for individuals with physical disabilities or limb loss. Their work combines medical knowledge with technical expertise to create devices that enhance mobility and function. In this article, we'll explore the earning potential of orthotists and prosthetists across different regions of the United States. We'll also compare their salaries to those of similar health care professions, providing valuable insights for anyone considering a career in this rewarding field or looking to understand the financial aspects of this specialized occupation.
Highest Paying States for Orthotists and Prosthetists
Orthotists and prosthetists can find the highest salaries in several states across the United States. The following data highlights key states where these professionals can earn top dollar:
- Mississippi leads with an average annual salary of $98,140 and an hourly mean wage of $47.18. The total employment figure for this state is not available.
- South Carolina closely follows, offering an average annual salary of $97,370 and an hourly mean wage of $46.81, with employment of approximately 110 professionals.
- Oregon and Kentucky also stand out with annual salaries of $95,210 and $94,890, respectively. Oregon employs around 60 orthotists and prosthetists, while Kentucky employs about 40.
Other notable states include:
- New Hampshire, offering $93,560 annually and employing 120 professionals.
- California, a large employer with 1,000 orthotists and prosthetists, offers an average salary of $93,130
These states not only provide competitive salaries but also represent a diverse range of employment opportunities in the field of orthotics and prosthetics.
Comparing Salaries in Hearing, Eye, and Prosthetic Care
The data from the BLS provides insights into the salaries of three distinct healthcare professions: hearing aid specialists, ophthalmic medical technicians, and orthotists and prosthetists. Among these, orthotists and prosthetists earn the highest average annual salary, at $80,500, and have an average hourly wage of $38.70. This is followed by hearing aid specialists, who earn an average of $61,550 annually, with a corresponding hourly wage of $29.59. Meanwhile, ophthalmic medical technicians earn the least, with an average annual salary of $44,290 and an hourly wage of $21.30.
In terms of employment numbers, ophthalmic medical technicians have the largest workforce, with 73,390 employed across the country. Hearing aid specialists and orthotists and prosthetists have 10,250 and 8,820 employed professionals, respectively. The data highlights a significant variation in both salaries and employment numbers among these healthcare occupations, which can influence career choices for those interested in specialized health care fields.
Bottom Line
Choosing a career as an orthotist or prosthetist can be both rewarding and financially promising. With an average annual salary of $80,500, these professionals not only earn a competitive wage but also play an essential role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities or limb loss. This field combines medical knowledge with technical skills to design and fit custom orthopedic devices that improve mobility and function.
Here’s a quick summary of the key takeaways for prospective orthotists and prosthetists:
- Career Opportunities: With nearly 9,000 professionals employed in this field, there are diverse opportunities across the United States.
- Salary Insights: Orthotists and prosthetists earn higher salaries compared to hearing aid specialists and ophthalmic medical technicians.
- Top-Paying States: Consider opportunities in states like Mississippi, South Carolina, Oregon, and Kentucky, where salaries can reach up to $98,140 annually.
- Employment Diversity: California leads in employment numbers, offering numerous job opportunities with a competitive salary.
Whether you’re exploring a career in orthotics and prosthetics or seeking insights into the financial aspects, this specialized health care field offers both personal fulfillment and professional rewards.