Locum tenens physicians specializing in radiology earn the highest daily rates, according to analysis of industry rate estimates published in Have Stethoscope, Will Travel: Staff Care's Guide to Locum Tenens in 2014.
The per diem rates for locum tenens physicians paid by healthcare facilities and physician practices to locum tenens agencies vary, but surgical and diagnostic specialists tend to earn more than primary care physicians.
The range of daily rates for locum tenens physicians by specialty are estimated as follows:
- Radiology — $1,900 to $2,500
- Anesthesiology (Specialties) — $1,775 to $1,975
- Anesthesiology (General) — $1,675 to $1,800
- Orthopedic Surgery — $1,570 to $1,880
- Urology — $1,360 to $1,640
- Obstetrics/Gynecology — $1,350 to $1,550
- Gastroenterology — $1,335 to $1,900
- General Surgery — $1,300 to $1,500
- Cardiology — $1,275 to $2,000
- Psychiatry — $900 to $1,200
- General Internal Medicine — $735 to $810
- Family Practice — $735 to $800
- Pediatrics — $735 to $800