Team physicians are doctors who specialize in sports medicine and work with athletic teams on both the professional and collegiate levels. After the completion of a traditional residency program, these doctors will advance their knowledge with an additional sports medicine fellowship. This training may last up to two years and will include training in sports-related injuries and treatment options.

Average Salary

The median salary for team physicians as of 2013 is $187,200 annually. Several factors determine the salary a physician can earn including location, experience and the type of professional sports team they will be working with. For example, team physicians in the Western region of the U.S. average $187,200 per year while physicians in the Southern region average a slightly lower salary of $184,800. Team physicians may be employed full time by the team or may work as an independent contractor depending on the needs of the team. In addition to the salary earned through the sports team, many physicians also maintain a private practice.