"70 hours a week or so, the amount of time a normal doc might avg"
from:
http://66.218.71.225/search/cache?p=...icp=1&.intl=us
"Physicians spent an average of 57.6 hours per week in professional activities in 2001, according to the AMA's Physician Socioeconomic Statistics, 2003-2004 Edition."
I totally agree, no one should enter ANY job exclusively based on salary. But there is no denying it, DOCTORS HAVE AN EXCELLENT SALARY- anywhere from around $150K for pediatrians, GP's, IM's, and psychiatrists to $250K+ for anesthesiologists and radiologists, AS THEY DESERVE.
Even with taxes and FICA, which subtract between 30-40% of the paycheck, and medmal as well, there is still by far a very comfortable income for doctors to enjoy.
Bottom Line: Do not pursue a career in medicine if only the pay will motivate you. But anyone who refutes the fact that they live on very very comfortable money is basing their judgment on pure fallacy.