Weekly Rounds: Issue #004

Week of May 25, 2025

May 25, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

Fellow physicians, as we navigate today's financial landscape, it's crucial to make informed decisions. This month, we explore concerning physician salary trends, potential HSA opportunities in Trump's tax plan, common Roth IRA pitfalls, the wisdom of buy-and-hold investing, and why proper disability coverage remains essential for our profession. Despite market volatility, strategic financial planning remains our best medicine for long-term financial health

💰 How Much Money Do Doctors Make a Year? Salaries Have Yet Another Disappointingly Small Increase

Source: WCI
Published: May 21, 2025

Physician compensation saw a modest increase in 2024, continuing a trend of minimal salary growth for medical professionals. The White Coat Investor report highlights this disappointing pattern, suggesting ongoing financial challenges for doctors despite their extensive training and critical healthcare contributions.

👴 Health savings accounts are poised to get a big boost in Trump's tax package

Source: Yahoo Finance
Published: May 22, 2025

Trump's tax package aims to significantly expand health savings accounts, potentially allowing $10,000 annual contributions and broader use beyond medical expenses. This aligns with Republican healthcare philosophy of consumer-driven healthcare while addressing criticisms about HSAs primarily benefiting wealthier Americans with disposable income for savings.

💹 I’m a Financial Expert: This is the No. 1 Mistake Americans Make With Their Roth IRAs

Source: Yahoo Finance
Published: May 24, 2025

Financial experts identify not contributing regularly to Roth IRAs as Americans' primary mistake. Many investors fail to maximize tax-free growth potential by making inconsistent contributions or waiting until tax deadlines. Establishing automatic monthly transfers can help maintain consistent investment habits and build substantial retirement savings over time.

📈 Why Investors Often Abandon Buy-and-Hold and Why You Shouldn’t

Source: Physician on FIRE
Published: May 20, 2025

Despite emotional market reactions, investors frequently abandon buy-and-hold strategies during downturns. Research shows long-term investing consistently outperforms market timing. By understanding behavioral biases and maintaining disciplined investment approaches, investors can avoid costly mistakes and achieve better returns through market volatility.

📝 Why You Need Disability Insurance (and I Need Shoulder Pads)

Source: WCI
Published: May 20, 2025

Disability insurance functions as protective gear for your financial plan. While you may not anticipate needing it, unexpected circumstances can occur. Like shoulder pads in contact sports, this coverage provides essential financial security against unforeseen events that could impact your earning ability.

As physicians, we must remember that wealth-building requires both tactical steps and strategic patience. Whether it's maximizing your HSA, avoiding Roth IRA mistakes, or securing proper disability coverage, the foundation remains consistent: make informed decisions and stay the course during market fluctuations. Despite modest salary increases, our financial futures remain within our control. 💼