The Society of Thoracic Surgeons 2024 Member Practice Survey

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) has conducted a practice survey every 5 years since 1974 to guide decision-making and resource allocation.

The 2024 Practice Survey, conducted online between January 25 and March 14, 2024, included a 72-question survey distributed to 4692 active STS members from the Senior, Surgeon, and Resident/Fellow member categories. A total of 1027 responses (22%) were received and interpreted. Other nonsurgeon members were not included in this survey.

Most surgeon respondents were men (86%) and White (65%), with an increased representation of women in the field. Mean respondent age was 55.8 years. The traditional training pathway remains prevalent (87%), although additional training beyond cardiothoracic residency increased to 41%. An increase has occurred in academic (46%) and government (2%) positions, whereas hospital-based and private practice positions have declined. Overall career satisfaction was 80% (43% very satisfied and 37% somewhat satisfied). In addition, symptoms of burnout and depression along with workplace challenges, including discrimination and harassment, were reported by 55.7% of surgeons. The average salary for STS members is commensurate with the 2024 STS Compensation Survey. Research participation has declined slightly. Lastly, the use of electronic health records is evolving, with more surgeons finding them easier to use compared with previous years.

This member survey highlighted that cardiothoracic surgeons are largely satisfied with their career, but also identified challenges in work-life balance. The STS remains committed to supporting its members by addressing their evolving career practices and needs, fostering professional growth, and advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery.