Are you a physician or advanced practice provider looking for temporary work or contract positions? If so, you may have considered working locum tenens. Locum tenens can offer a variety of benefits, including flexibility, work-life balance, and the opportunity to gain experience in different settings.

What is Locum Tenens?

Before we dive into tips for success, let’s define what locum tenens is. Locum tenens is a Latin phrase that translates to “to hold the place of”. In the medical field, it refers to temporary work or contract positions that are filled by physicians or advanced practice providers. Approximately one-third of physicians are currently working locums or have worked locums in the past.

Locum tenens assignments can range from a few days to several months, and can be found in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. These assignments are often used to fill in for physicians who are on leave, to cover busy periods, or to provide specialized care in underserved areas.

Benefits of Working Locum Tenens

There are many benefits to working locum tenens, including:

• Flexibility: Locum assignments allow you to choose when and where you work, giving you the flexibility to create a schedule that works for you.

• Work-life balance: With the ability to choose your assignments, you can create a work-life balance that suits your needs.

• Salary: Locum tenens assignments often offer higher salaries than permanent positions, as they may require more specialized skills or fill a temporary need.

• Experience: Working locums allows you to gain experience in different settings, which can be valuable for your career growth.

• Networking: As you work in different locations, you’ll have the opportunity to network with other healthcare professionals and potentially make valuable connections.

• Travel: Locum tenens assignments can take you to different cities, allowing you to explore new places while working.

Tips for Success in Locum Tenens

Find a Reputable Staffing Agency

The first step to finding locum tenens assignments is to partner with a reputable staffing agency. These agencies consult with healthcare professionals to find the assignments that align with your skills and preferences.

When choosing a staffing agency, be sure to do your research and read reviews from other healthcare professionals. You may also want to consider working with an agency that specializes in your specific field or has a strong network in the locations you’re interested in working.

Negotiate Your Salary

One of the benefits of working locum tenens is the potential for higher salaries. However, it’s important to negotiate your salary to ensure you’re being fairly compensated for your skills and experience.

When negotiating your salary, consider factors such as the cost of living in the location, the length of the assignment, and any specialized skills or certifications you may have. You can also use resources such as salary surveys and online calculators to determine a fair rate.

Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance

As with any job, it’s important to maintain a healthy work-life balance when working locum tenens. This can be challenging when you’re constantly moving between assignments, but there are steps you can take to prioritize your well-being.

First, be sure to communicate your availability and preferences with your staffing agency. This will help them find assignments that align with your schedule and needs. Additionally, make time for self-care and prioritize activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

Utilize Your Residency Experience

If you’re a recent graduate or still in residency, you may be wondering if locum tenens is a good fit for you. The answer is yes! Locum tenens assignments can be a great way to gain experience in different settings and specialties, which can be valuable for your career growth.

Additionally, working locum tenens can help you pay off student loans or save money for future endeavors. It can also give you the opportunity to explore different locations and find the perfect place to settle down after residency.

Work with a Physician Recruiter

Working with a physician recruiter can also be beneficial for success in locum tenens. These professionals specialize in connecting physicians and advanced practice providers with locum opportunities and can help you find assignments that align with your skills and preferences.

A physician recruiter can also assist with negotiating salary, finding housing, and navigating the logistics of working in different locations. They can also provide valuable insights and advice based on their experience in the industry.

Consider Working Alumni Staffing

While there are many staffing agencies that specialize in locum tenens, consider working with Alumni Staffing. With an extensive network and years of experience in the locum tenens industry, we offer personalized support tailored to your preferences and career goals. From providing access to diverse assignments and handling logistical details to offering ongoing guidance and support, Alumni Staffing ensures a seamless locum tenens experience. Partner with us and navigate the temporary medical work landscape with confidence, knowing you have a trusted ally committed to your success.

Working locum tenens can offer a variety of benefits, including flexibility, work-life balance, and the opportunity to gain experience in different settings. By partnering with a reputable staffing agency, negotiating your salary, and prioritizing your well-being, you can set yourself up for success in this type of work.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned physician, or an advanced practice provider, locum tenens can be a valuable addition to your career. Consider working with a physician recruiter or a locums staffing agency to find assignments that align with your skills and preferences, and don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary to ensure you’re being fairly compensated for your work.

With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your locum tenens assignments and achieve success in this growing field of temporary medical work.

Whether you're an experienced locum tenens provider or just getting started, Alumni Staffing has the expertise to help you find the locum tenens assignment that is right for you. Give us a call at (908) 842-8235 to speak with a consultant or check out our list of current openings.