As a doctor considering locum work, one of the main questions you will want to ask is, how much will I get paid? This is a poignant question as locum pay rates vary depending on your skills and level of experience. Like with most careers, those doctors with more experience within their chosen field or those in short supply within the medical profession tend to be able to command a greater wage. So how can you make sure that youre being paid fairly? Working through a locum recruitment agency can often be the easiest and most reliable way of earning top locum pay rates. It can also be a good way to see different parts of the UK, work in different environments and develop your career by expanding on your previous experience. Locum recruitment agencies work with both NHS and private hospitals as well as with prisons and GP surgeries. This gives you the opportunity to work where and when you want. Locum pay rates themselves vary from agency to agency, although it is worth noting that some companies are particularly good at negotiating higher remuneration packages for their most qualified doctors. In terms of locum work it is vital to understand that the more experienced a doctor you are and the more flexible you are willing to be in terms of shift patterns, the more you are likely to take home each week. Guidance on locum pay rates can be found through NHS websites and locum recruitment agencies. The topic is also discussed often on medical forums and through individual blogs. To ensure that you get the most you can both financially and professionally out of your locum career, it would be a good idea to discuss your career prospects and aspirations with people who have specific knowledge on the matter. Speak to colleagues; speak to locum recruiters or do some research on the web to make sure that you make an informed decision about your medical career. I hope that this article has proved useful as an introduction on how to secure the best locum pay rates in the UK. About the Author: