If you’re a doctor’s office that constantly is relying on locum physicians to come in and work, then you know that it isn’t a simple task for how much a locum physician should be paid. You know that doctors who originate in different parts of the United States will expect different pay rates and want to have different time periods for work contracts included.
Below are a couple of tips to help you negotiate for the best locum rates!
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What’s The Physician’s Level Of Experience?
One of the main thing you should consider when looking to hire a short term locum is what their level of experience includes. If they’re newer to the field, then you shouldn’t be paying them the same amount as someone who has years of experience.
You’ll also want to consider how their experience aligns with the needs you have for your office. If they’re an expert in a certain skill set you required in your medical practice, then it may be worth it to pay them more so you can quickly fill that open slot. If they’re someone who offers a lot of the other general skills that locum physicians have (and they don’t fill the specific need you have) then you shouldn’t feel the need to pay them extra.
How Long Will They Be In Your Practice?
It might sound counterintuitive, but you’ll probably be expected to pay a locum more if they’re going to be in your practice for less time. This is due to their travel costs and because they probably won’t have their next job set up immediately after they’re finished working for you.
How Far In Advance Are You Attempting To Hire A Locum?
Another key aspect in locum rate negotiation, is the amount of time prior you’re putting out the “job listing” for the locum before you expect them to be working in your practice. If it’s less than a week, you’re going to be looking at paying higher rates for your locum since it’s such a last minute notice. Locums will also know that they have more leverage to negotiate with since it will seem like an “emergency” posting to them.
If you’re posting about needing a locum further in advance, then the rates will be much closer to normal. In an attempt to keep your locum rates low, always try to get a locum physician as far in advance as possible.
What Other Benefits Will Be Included In The Locum’s Stay
Sometimes doctors offices will help cover the cost of the locum traveling to the medical office’s location. Other times, a medical office will pay for the locum’s hotel (or rent them a short-term apartment depending on how long they’ll be at one location).
If you’re offering either one of these perks in addition to paying your locum, then your rates for the locum will be lower for what you’re paying them per hour. Many locums are fine with being paid less as long as they don’t have to worry about the other aspects of traveling.
