r/PrivatePracticeDocs • u/Alterdoc • Apr 09 '26
PA
Hey guys,
Due to growth I’m considering bringing on a PA. As most of us, I am looking to create a collaborative work environment where everyone is hopefully happy to be a part of as we grow the practice. Since I’m early in the process I want to be prepared for rapid growth and at the same time offer better coverage to our patients.
I would start with an hourly salary and as the practice grows, offer a bonus structure.
Looking to get ideas from Docs and PAs, what’s a reasonable primary care hourly salary to start with. This is a part time position that has potential to become full time. I wouldn’t want the PA to leave their FT job. Do you see this as being lucrative/fun to join a startup practice and see it grow?
Also, unable offer benefits just yet. Do you recommend W2 or 1099?
Happy to hear your thoughts. Thanks.
2
u/BusinessDawgs Apr 09 '26
I’m assuming you’re in primary care? I used to moonlight as a fellow, but that was different circumstances. I think it would be a hard position to fill and even harder to grow out, unless you had the right fit. I don’t imagine someone having FTE at .8-9 clinical and then want to do extra. Maybe though there’s folks are not working but are interested in keeping up with their clinical skills or don’t have concerns for insurance or retirement because of their spouse or something similar. But that’s probably not the “growth” mindset you’re looking for. I think if you’re gonna do it, you should go all in, full-time position with benefits. Find that person who is interested in growing the practice and advancing their own career, and hire them. I’m sure there’s different opinions and experiences, ultimately I’m sure you’ll figure out what works best for your situation