Locum Neurologists Earn More

Few neurologists choose their profession based on earnings potential, but with a majority of neurologists reporting long hours and increased challenges to profitability with perm work, many have switched to locum work to learn more. According to the 2023 Medscape Compensation Report, only half  (51%) of perm neurologists feel fairly paid. Neurologist compensation satisfaction is slightly below the average satisfaction rate for all physician specialties, and in the bottom half specialties.

What is the average salary for neurologists? 

Neurologists self-reported an average of $313,000 a year, according to the 2023 Medscape Compensation Report. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a slightly lower annual salary of $255,000. The discrepancy likely stems from additional sources of compensation. A full 29% of neurologists report taking additional work to supplement their income.

What do locum tenens neurologists make? 

The annual income of a locum tenens neurologist is decided by so many variables, including location, urgency, and work experience. But on a weekly rate basis, locum tenens neurologists can earn 52% more than their perm counterparts. This is often because facilities hire locum tenens neurologists to fill urgent vacancies amidst a shortage of physicians and are willing to pay competitive rates for qualified neurologists.

Fight Burnout With Locum Tenens Neurologist Work

Neurologists are increasingly reporting burnout,  with 41% of male neurologists and 54% of female neurologists reporting feeling burnt out or depressed.

Overwhelmingly, neurologists cite the never-ending pile of paperwork and administrative burden as the top contributor of burnout (66%), with insufficient salary (45%) and too many work hours (42%) rounding out the top reasons for burnout.

This is likely why neurologists increasingly cite perm burnout as a top reason for choosing locum tenens work. The reduced burden of administrative work, travel, and change of scenery, and set shift schedule are all powerful tools in avoiding physician burnout.

Locum Tenens Neurologists Make A Difference

Neurologists cite making the world a better place as one of the top-three most rewarding aspects of their work. Neurologists cite locum tenens work, which often involves helping medically underserved populations who would otherwise not get access to the neurological care they need, as immensely rewarding.

Barton Associates is committed to giving back to underserved communities and highlighting locum clinicians who make a difference. Our annual Locum Heroes awards locum clinicians and providers who choose assignments in underserved areas, make a difference in a facility affected by a staffing shortage, dedicate their time between contracts to make a difference in their community, or help humankind by providing their skills or resources.