Interesting topic, given the fact that pilots have been complaining for years about "shrinkage" in their pay and benefits. If you think you've taken it in the shorts, you need to take a further look at the medical profession, specifically Medical Doctors. I'd wager an adult beverage that over the past 15 years, they've taken a larger hit than we have. As well, when someone like 1215Fuzz (or you or I for that matter) visits a doctors office, the charge that is billed, has all the other expenses associated with that office, built in. Charges such as staff, rent, utilities, non-reusable materials, hazardous waste removal fees, office insurance, malpractice insurance, etc, etc. To make matters worse (for the Doctors), they have to submit to our insurance companies, who have negotiated with the doctors, prices for given procedures. So maybe that office visit really cost $300, but because of the doctor-insurance company relationship, the doctor only charged $260. Now if the insurance pays the full $260, you're free and clear, but if they don't, then you're on the hook for the additional $40, above and beyond your deductible.

Just for reference, here's a link to physician salaries. I think you'll be quite surprised, as most of our senior pilots make that or more. Physician Salaries, Average Physician Salary, Doctor Salary - PayScale

JJ