Derived from the Latin for “holding the place of”, locum tenens is a reference to temporary healthcare positions that offer unique alternatives to full-time and permanent roles. In this guide, we offer an overview that covers everything from the pros and cons of locum tenens to how to get started.
Locum Tenens: What It Is and How It Works
A locum tenens position requires doctors to fill in for unavailable peers. These temporary physician jobs may range from long-term placements to short-term assignments, giving practitioners the flexibility needed to seek diverse work experiences.
Locum Tenens Benefits
Locum tenens roles offer several benefits, including:
- A primary advantage of locum tenens work is its flexibility. Doctors can choose the type, location, and duration of practice, allowing for schedule customization.
- Growth opportunities.Locum tenens positions expose doctors to different patient populations, medical practices, and healthcare systems, fostering professional growth and continuing education.
- Better work-life balance. In locum tenens roles, physicians can adapt their schedules to accommodate off-hours commitments, achieving a better balance between work and personal life.
- Financial advantages.Locum tenens physicians receive competitive pay, and some roles include accommodation and travel allowances.
Read on to learn which considerations to make when contemplating a locum tenens role.
Factors to Consider
Before agreeing to a temporary role, a doctor should:
- Consider their credentials and licenses. A physician entering a locum tenens role should ensure their licenses are updated and valid in the area in which they plan to work. Getting credentials from the healthcare facility or staffing agency is another crucial step.
- Verify their insurance coverage. Potential locum tenens doctors must ensure they have sufficient malpractice coverage, either through a personal policy or through the facility providing the opportunity.
- Understand contract terms. Before accepting locum tenens assignments, physicians should review contract terms carefully, including details about responsibilities, work hours, and additional benefits.
After considering these factors, physicians will be prepared for the next step in the locum tenens journey.
Starting With Locum Tenens
If you’re a physician who would like to take on a temporary assignment, follow these basic steps.
- Research opportunities. Doctors can access locum tenens opportunities through multiple channels, including healthcare facilities, agencies, and online job boards. Learning about and comparing options helps doctors find positions that align with their career goals and preferences.
- Building professional networks. Forming working relationships with facilities, providers, and agencies may open doors to new opportunities. Networking offers valuable insights into different agencies’ reputations and can help doctors make informed choices.
When preparing for a locum tenens assignment, a physician must familiarize themselves with facility protocols, recordkeeping systems, and patient demographics. With effective communication, the transition into a temporary role will be seamless.
Working as a Locum Tenens Physician: What It Takes
Locum tenens doctors need several traits to be successful in their short-term positions, including:
- Flexibility and adaptability are crucial aspects of locum tenens work. When doctors can quickly adjust to new work cultures, surroundings, and patient groups, they’re more likely to have successful experiences.
- Temporary doctors represent themselves and the facilities or agencies with which they work. Maintaining effective communication, cooperation, and professionalism ensures future opportunities.
While these positions can be very rewarding, physicians must consider factors such as retirement planning, health insurance, and taxes. Consulting financial advisors may help locum tenens physicians make informed decisions about their financial futures.
Prepare for Short-Term Work in the Medical Field
Locum tenens offers doctors a rewarding and unique way to practice, providing work-life balance, professional growth, and flexibility. By understanding its intricacies, considering opportunities, and preparing for assignments, physicians can start journeys that align with their preferences and career goals.