How locum tenens pay works for anesthesiologists

Locum tenens — or temporary healthcare assignments — is a great way to earn extra cash, try out different hospitals or practices, provide care in underserved or rural locations, and even wind down your career toward retirement. Think of it as a way to focus on what you love (caring for patients) and getting paid well for it. Curious if locum tenens pay for anesthesiologists could be a game-changer for you?

What types of anesthesiologists work locum tenens?

Locum tenens isn’t just for one type of provider; it can be an option at any point in your career.

Early-career anesthesiologists: If you are new to the field and looking to explore different settings and earn extra income, locums is a great place to start. You can try different types of facilities and find an environment that fits your career and lifestyle goals.

Mid-career professionals: You’re settled and happy with your job's traditional cadence, but sometimes, you feel stuck. Picking up extra locums shifts can help shake up your schedule and contribute to your growing financial goals.

Late-career anesthesiologists: You can use locums to scale back on your time at work while still staying active in medicine (and earning comparable income).

For Dr. Lumpkin, locums work brought her freedom from burnout, time to write a book, and the ability to travel and serve on medical missions abroad. "Locum tenens is the promised land of medicine," she says.

What factors affect locum tenens pay for anesthesiologists?

Several variables impact what you'll earn as a locum tenens anesthesiologist:

●     Location: Pay tends to be higher in states with fewer anesthesiologists or higher demand. The highest-paying states include Washington, New York, and Massachusetts.

●     Experience: More experienced providers may command higher rates.

●     Urgency of need: Last-minute or hard-to-fill assignments may offer premium rates.

●     Shift type: Weekends, nights, and call duties can increase compensation.

●     Facility type: Critical access hospitals vs. larger medical centers may offer different pay.

What is the average pay for locum anesthesiologists?

According to Locumstory, locum anesthesiologist pay per hour may be around $275 – $325. That equates to $2,200 - $2,600 per 8-hour day, or more, with longer shifts and an even greater earning potential if you factor in weekend coverage.

This data can be compared to the national average salary for anesthesiologists — approximately $472,000 annually — and you’ll see how quickly locum tenens pay for anesthesiologists can add up.

What does a locum tenens agency pay for?

CompHealth and similar agencies typically cover:

●     Travel to and from the assignment

●     Housing or lodging arrangements

●     Malpractice insurance (tail coverage is often included)

●     Licensing fees (assistance is often provided)

●     Credentialing paperwork

●     Meals and incidentals

When and how are locum tenens anesthesiologists paid?

We pay our locum anesthesiologists weekly via direct deposit. You'll submit a timesheet through our MyCompHealth app or online portal, and regardless of how quickly the facility processes its own billing, your earnings are consistent and reliable.

How do locum tenens agencies make money?

Staffing agencies like CompHealth are paid by the healthcare facility employing a locum physician. The facility pays the agency a set fee per hour. You’re never charged for our services.

Why work with a locum tenens agency?

Going through a locum tenens agency like CompHealth makes the process so much easier!

We have unparalleled access to open roles and help you match with a facility that suits your preferences and lifestyle needs. Agencies can assist you with licensing, housing, payroll, and more. You’re supported every step of the way, even in the event of a malpractice lawsuit.

Ready to earn locum tenens pay for anesthesiologists?

Locum tenens is more than just a paycheck — it’s a career solution that offers overworked anesthesiologists the flexibility, independence, and renewed joy in practicing medicine. "You get all the benefits of practicing medicine — without the politics, meetings, or burnout," says Dr. Lumpkin.

When structured well, locum tenens pay for anesthesiologists can rival or exceed full-time salaries while giving you control over your schedule and lifestyle.

Ready to earn more by working locums? We can help you find a locum tenens assignment there. Give us a call at 800.453.3030 or view today's locum tenens job opportunities.