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This is very dependent in your region of work and the going rate within that area- if demand is high, shifts are more difficult to fill (e.g. ER, overnights, etc.), or last-minute then you can charge more
On average, to account for all the additional fees and infrastructure associated with running your own business, it is prudent to mark up an average full time equivalent hourly rate by ~ 30%
Relief Rover has a great calculator to help you factor in all your expenses and come up with a minimum charge to break even
Investigating what staffing agencies are charging clinics for their employees can help guide your rate as well (Roo, HolidayVet, IndeVets, etc.)
The benefit of SoundVetMed.com is that you can set your own rates and we don't take any cuts from your shifts! Want to charge more because it's always crazy at that hospital or there's always traffic on your way there? Do it.
Connecting with other relief doctors or technicians in your area on Facebook, through local meetings or colleagues can help guide your rates as well
Remember to increase your rates over time (at least once per year) or as you see the general trends changing to account for inflation and your increased experience as well as factoring in demand.
Most relief veterinarians rely on regional word-of-mouth or getting involved with recruiters for corporations to help place them at hospitals in need
Local/state veterinary medical association (VMA) organizations are great resources for clinics who have ads out to obtain relief coverage
Pharmaceutical and pet food reps are good resources to let you know which clinics need relief services.
Use an integrated platform like Sound Vet Med to host your own web presence
Look through which hospitals have ads out
You are also encouraged bring your own hospitals into the mix to streamline your booking requests and business management
You’re all set up! Now it is just maintenance . . . .
Once you get there - be a professional and be a good provider
Try and work efficiently and be courteous to staff and clients
Practice/offer your best medicine but try and do it within the scope of that practice
Keep detailed records that provide the full-time associates information on how to continue managing the cases/follow-up without you.
Do your best to help and get everyone home on time and be a good citizen (clean up after yourself, help out where you can).
Ask for feedback and be open to suggestions without judgment - you might learn some gems about medicine and life along the way
Keep track of hours worked, mileage, and income earned
This material is intended for educational purposes only, please seek professional advice for recommendations specific to your situation.