W2 vs 1099 for PAs: The Real Pros...
W2 vs 1099 for PAs: The Real Pros/Cons + What No One Plans For
The Millionaires in Medicine Show by Kristin Burton, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-HM, CPAAPA
S1 · E19
Jun 9, 2026
34:55
Episode notes

A lot of surgical PAs are quietly asking the same question: Is there a way to earn more and build real flexibility… without leaving the OR?

In this episode, Kristin sits down with Dan Payson, founder of All Star Surgical, to break down what it actually looks like for surgical PAs to go independent (1099), how the pay structures work, and what you need in place so the extra income doesn’t turn into chaos—especially on taxes and backend systems.

Inside, you’ll hear:

  • The difference between “freelancing” and building a real surgical PA business
  • How independent surgical PA pay is often structured (and what makes rates vary)
  • The biggest blind spot that blows up 1099 income (and how to avoid it)
  • What it takes to be successful outside your “home hospital” comfort zone
  • Why backend inf ... 
Keywords
money for healthcare professionals
financial literacy for clinicians
physician assistant
physician associate
investing for healthcare professionals
tax strategy
passive income for clinicians
financial independence
advance practice provider
job search
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Where this episode is made