Medical Sales Compensation
Base, Commission, OTE—explained

Comp plans can look similar on paper—but perform very differently in real life. Here’s how to evaluate offers and ask the right questions.

Key components

Base salary

Stability and predictability; varies by segment and seniority.

Commission + accelerators

Payout structures that reward over-performance—watch the details.

Quota & attainment

OTE assumes 100%—ask what % of reps actually hit it.

Territory reality

Great plan + weak territory = frustration. Ask about coverage and access.

Questions to ask in interviews

  • What percent of the team hit quota last year?
  • How are accelerators applied (thresholds, caps, timing)?
  • What’s the ramp period and how is ramp compensated?
  • What is the territory history (turnover, account access, churn)?
  • How do purchasing processes work (VAC, committees, procurement)?

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