In Pakistan, doctors’ salaries vary significantly based on factors such as specialization, experience, and location. Here’s an overview of the current compensation landscape for medical professionals in the country:
General Practitioners:
- Average Annual Salary: Approximately PKR 775,110.
- Salary Range: From PKR 117,480 to PKR 7 million, depending on experience and other factors.
Family Physicians:
- Average Annual Salary: Around PKR 1,032,259.
- Salary Range: Between PKR 30,000 and PKR 8 million, influenced by experience and location.
Specialists:
- Average Annual Salary: Approximately PKR 5,401,528.
- Salary Range: From PKR 3,708,242 for entry-level positions to PKR 7,103,742 for those with over eight years of experience.
Regional Variations:
- Karachi: Doctors earn an average of PKR 67,500 per month, totaling about PKR 810,000 annually.
- Lahore: The average annual salary is around PKR 5,637,624, slightly higher than the national average for specialists.
Factors Influencing Salaries:
- Experience: Entry-level doctors earn less, with significant increases observed after several years of practice.
- Specialization: Specialists, particularly in high-demand fields, command higher salaries compared to general practitioners.
- Location: Urban centers like Karachi and Lahore offer higher compensation due to the cost of living and demand for services.
- Sector: Private sector positions often provide higher salaries than public sector roles, though this can vary.
Global Comparison:
Internationally, Pakistani doctors’ salaries are lower compared to counterparts in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. For instance, the average annual salary for doctors in the U.S. is approximately $261,226, while in the U.K., it’s around $169,868.
Conclusion:
Doctors’ salaries in Pakistan are influenced by multiple factors, including specialization, experience, location, and sector of employment. While compensation has been increasing, it remains lower compared to international standards. Ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and economic conditions are essential to enhance remuneration for medical professionals in the country.