It is also helpful if they have an interest in traveling and meeting new people, and can develop a rapport quickly with new colleagues and new patients. Physicians who are interested in enhancing their medical skills and working in different practice settings and geographic locations also fare well as temporary physicians. Locum tenens must be prepared to pay federal, state, and Social Security taxes on their own, since they won't be automatically withheld. There is also no paid sick time, so physicians may want to ask the agency for assistance in making arrangements for life, health, and disability insurance, as well as retirement planning, to protect themselves in case of illness, injury or, some other debilitating factor that prevents them from having a regular income. Call, weekends, and extended shifts are scheduled and negotiated in advance.
Daily fees vary depending on the specialty and the current demand for it.