People think this doc is lying about his $1.4M salary. Here’s why they’re wrong

By MDLinx staff

Published April 17, 2025

Key Takeaways

Industry Buzz

“I’m a medical oncologist and I make $1.4 million per year. For context, I do locum tenens contracts and travel doctor contracts, so that can easily be 3 times a healthcare provider’s income.” — @theoncrediblemd

In a recent Instagram Reel, a medical oncologist @theoncrediblemd was interviewed about his yearly salary.

The video has since sparked a wave of comments and discussions after the physician said he earns a whopping $1.4 million annually, claiming this income sounded too good to be true.

“One year as an attending and earning millions. Nope. Not true,” one commenter wrote. “These numbers are fictional. No first year attending is clearing those numbers,” another user added.

But the oncologist in question says he takes on locum tenens contracts, which helps boost his salary. (Locum tenens refers to temporary placements where doctors fill in for regular staff in hospitals, often on a short-term basis.) And while this career path has gained significant attention for offering high earning potential, the comments section of the video was filled with disbelief, with many questioning the reality of such a paycheck.

So, why don’t all doctors jump on the locum bandwagon? The answer lies in a variety of factors that go beyond just financial incentives.

High earning potential

First, let's break down why the oncologist's claim isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem. Locums tenens doctors often earn a significantly higher hourly rate compared to their full-time counterparts, especially when they specialize in high-demand fields like oncology. ^[]

The allure of earning a six-figure income, or even $1.4 million annually, comes from the flexibility and high rates offered by temporary contracts.

Doctors in these positions are usually paid per day worked, with some earning upwards of $2,000 a day or more depending on their specialty, location, and the urgency of the need. ^[]

This makes locum tenens an attractive option for doctors who want to maximize their income. For example, a full-time medical oncologist might make around $350,000 annually, but by working multiple short-term assignments or “shifts” in different locations, they can quickly boost that into the seven-figure range. ^[]

The catch

While the earning potential is high, it's important to understand the lifestyle that comes with being a locum tenens doctor. Many professionals in this field may face a level of burnout and exhaustion from constantly traveling or adjusting to new hospital environments.

The lack of job stability and the absence of long-term relationships with colleagues and patients can take a toll on work-life balance. ^[] Additionally, locum tenens physicians often don’t receive the same benefits as full-time doctors, such as retirement contributions, health insurance, or paid leave. ^[]

These factors may make the higher salary less appealing for some doctors who value the stability and benefits of a permanent role.

Not to mention, managing finances as an independent contractor (with no guarantee of future work) can be an administrative burden for some.

Locum tenens isn’t for everyone

For many doctors, the consistent, predictable nature of a permanent position is far more appealing than the uncertainty of locum tenens work—permanent positions often come with predictable hours, a set salary, and the opportunity to build lasting professional relationships.

Moreover, the job security and institutional support offered by permanent positions in hospitals or clinics can outweigh the financial advantages of locum tenens, particularly for those who have families or are nearing retirement.

The takeaway

While the claim of making $1.4 million a year through locum tenens may sound unbelievable, it’s not out of the realm of possibility. Doctors who take on multiple, high-paying locum assignments, particularly in high-demand specialties like oncology, can indeed hit these income levels.

However, the lifestyle and the trade-offs involved in being a locum tenens physician are not for everyone.