As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, more and more medical professionals are choosing to take control over their practices by switching to locum tenens and moonlighting roles. However, you might have a few questions about working in moonlighting or locum tenens positions. One of the biggest questions many medical professionals have is, “How much money can I make as a locum or moonlighter?” The experts at OnCall Solutions are here with a look at the average moonlighting and locum tenens salary numbers in 2023, and how you can improve your current salary.
What is Locum Tenens? What is Moonlighting?
Locum tenens is a Latin phrase meaning “one who holds the place.” In this role, qualified medical professionals temporarily hold the place of full-time employees when hospitals and practices experiencing gaps. Moonlighting is frequently used to describe a similar need, but typically has more longevity and the provider partnership can last years!
By filling this vital role in the healthcare industry, locums and moonlighters make more money each year than their full-time counterparts. Physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners can even frequently work locum tenens and moonlighting roles full-time.
A Look at Locum Tenens Salaries and Moonlighting Salaries
Locum tenens salaries and moonlighting positions are rarely salary-based, as the role is frequently based hours or days worked (while salaries reflect an annual pay). Locums and moonlighting are often paid hourly or by contract over a certain period. However, we can use these numbers to calculate a rough estimate of the locum tenens or moonlighting position’s salary equivalent. Using current statistics by ZipRecruiter®, let’s take a look at average locum tenens salaries in 2023:
- Nationwide, the average annual salary range for a US-based locum tenens physician in 2023 is between $308,000 and $400,000.
- The nationwide average annual salary range for a US-based locum tenens physician assistant in 2023 is between $103,000 and $159,000.
- Nationwide, the average annual salary range for a US-based locum tenens nurse practitioner in 2023 is between $110,000 and $180,000.
Factors Affecting Your Locum Tenens Salary or Moonlighting Salary
As a locum or moonlighter, you will naturally want to make as high of a salary as possible. If you are interested in learning more about how much you can make working locum tenens positions, here are some factors to consider:
- How You Control Your Practice
When working as a locum or moonlighter, you control your practice by deciding which shifts to accept. Naturally, the more you choose to work each year, the more money you will make.
- Your Preferred Work Area
The area you live/work within can affect your hourly pay. Locum and moonlighting pay (like most salaries) often reflects the cost of living in the area.
- Your Medical Specialty
The supply/demand and market value of your position can influence your pay. For example, a moonlighting nurse practitioner will make an impressive salary, though it will likely be less than that of a moonlighting brain surgeon.
- The Staffing Method You Choose
How do you find your locum tenens or moonlighting positions? Most locums use a staffing agency. If your staffing agency does not provide you with malpractice insurance and tail coverage, you could pay for your protection out of pocket. These extra costs will adjust the take-home pay you earn.
Find Locum Tenens Work with OnCall Solutions
OnCall Solutions can help you make the most of your locum tenens and moonlighting work. We partner physicians, physician assistants, and nurses with locum tenens positions in their areas. We streamline the credentialing process and take care of the groundwork—supporting you towards your locum tenens success. We invite you to contact OnCall Solutions to learn more or get started today!
