ARH has structured a compensation package designed to attract and retain quality oncologists in a competitive market. The organization recognizes that hematology/oncology physicians have options across the country, and the financial terms reflect both the regional need and the value you bring to the community. This is a hospital-employed position with a guaranteed base salary, productivity upside, and a comprehensive benefits package.
The compensation model prioritizes income stability over production pressure. Rather than tying your earnings primarily to wRVU targets that can be difficult to hit in lower-volume rural markets, ARH offers a competitive base salary aligned with MGMA benchmarks for your specialty. You will have a two-year income guarantee that provides financial security as you build your practice and establish yourself in the community. Productivity incentives remain available for physicians who exceed volume expectations, creating upside potential without the stress of eat-what-you-kill economics.
As a hospital-employed physician, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package that covers you and your family. ARH provides the standard suite of benefits expected from a major health system employer, along with professional expense coverage that eliminates out-of-pocket costs for the essentials of medical practice.
The compensation numbers tell only part of the story. Eastern Kentucky offers a cost of living significantly below national averages, which means your salary stretches further than it would in metropolitan markets. Housing costs in the Prestonsburg area run well below what you would pay in Lexington, Louisville, or other urban centers where oncology positions are available. A physician earning a competitive MGMA salary here can afford a lifestyle that would require substantially higher compensation in higher-cost markets.
The region also qualifies for various loan repayment programs beyond what ARH offers directly. Physicians serving in Health Professional Shortage Areas may be eligible for federal and state loan repayment assistance through programs like the National Health Service Corps. Your recruiter can provide details on specific programs and eligibility requirements.
ARH welcomes J-1 and H-1B visa candidates and has a track record of successfully sponsoring international medical graduates. The system employs an in-house immigration attorney who handles the visa process, making the transition as smooth as possible for candidates who require sponsorship. Several current ARH physicians arrived through the visa pathway and have remained with the organization long-term, putting down roots and raising families in the region after their initial obligations ended.
This compensation structure reflects ARH's commitment to recruiting physicians who will become long-term members of the community rather than short-term hires chasing the highest dollar. The organization invests in its physicians and expects that investment to be mutual.