Whether you’re starting or are retiring from practice, locum tenens jobs are a versatile, rewarding option. Why are so many doctors and clinicians taking on these assignments? We’ll get into some of their reasons below.
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Easier Scheduling for Busy Physicians, Nurses, and PAs
Locum tenens providers often get into these arrangements because they want more control over their schedules. If you’re tired of being on call, simply choose shifts that work for you—and spend more time with family. Locum tenens offers a better work-life balance, which benefits physicians and patients.
Additional Income
Although the medical field is a lucrative one, some doctors still look for ways to boost the bottom line. New physicians often use locum tenens jobs to pay educational debt while experienced doctors work temporary assignments to pay children’s college tuition or add to their retirement accounts.
No Commitment
In locum tenens, doctors are only committed to their patients. With assignments ranging in length from a few days to several years, staffers always have a way out if they decide to work elsewhere. If you’ve recently graduated from medical school, a locum tenens job will allow you to try several facilities and titles before settling down.
Less Time Spent on Clerical Work = More Time Spent With Patients
One of the biggest benefits of locum tenens jobs is the absence of administrative duties. As a fill-in physician, you won’t have to recruit team members, fill out insurance paperwork, or pay the bills—because someone else will do it.
As you spend less time on clerical work, you’ll have more time to focus on patients’ needs. With longer-term locum tenens assignments, you’ll get plenty of chances to monitor their progress.
Gaining Real-World and On-the-Job Experience
Every locum tenens job is different, and every patient’s needs are unique. Working in new places, meeting new people, and treating various conditions will sharpen your focus and broaden your perspective. If you’re dissatisfied with an existing position, a locum tenens assignment may be just what the doctor ordered.
Getting Paid to See the Country
Few jobs pay employees to travel, except locum tenens. Doctors can browse country-wide job listings and choose opportunities in their preferred areas. While working in the medical field can be hard, locum tenens assignments give physicians enough time to see the sights on days off.
Helping Those Who Need It Most
Many medical facilities hire temporary doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician’s assistants because of staffing shortages. Locum tenens workers are often needed in rural areas where people sometimes go without care, and they decrease the burden on overwhelmed, overworked colleagues.
Greater Professional Fulfillment
Everyone likes to be noticed, and doctors are no exception. Most physicians aren’t in the medical field for accolades, but it’s nice to know that efforts pay off. Locums are often used in areas with little access to healthcare, saving patients’ lives and offering crucial support to the underserved. By working on an as-needed basis, you’ll gain a greater level of professional fulfillment.
Locum Tenens Isn’t Going Anywhere
Locum tenens has grown in popularity since the 1970s, with primary care, surgical specialties, and anesthesiology seeing the greatest staffing demands. While the flexibility and versatility of on-demand work benefits healthcare facilities, doctors are still the driving force behind the growth of locum tenens.