Asked & Answered: 8 FAQs about Locum Tenens Physicians
More physicians are discovering the benefits of locum tenens work each year. Whether you're a recent graduate exploring different practice settings or an experienced doctor seeking flexibility, temporary assignments offer unique opportunities to expand your career while maintaining work-life balance.
If you're considering locum tenens for the first time, you probably have questions about how it works, what to expect, and whether it's right for your career goals. Here are the eight most frequently asked questions about locum tenens physicians, along with clear answers to help you make an informed decision.
1. What Is Locum Tenens?
The term "locum tenens" comes from Latin, meaning "one who holds the place of another." In healthcare, it refers to physicians who work temporary assignments to fill staffing gaps, cover for vacationing doctors, or support facilities during busy periods.
Locum tenens physicians work in various settings, from solo practices and medical groups to hospitals and specialty clinics. This flexibility allows you to experience different practice environments while earning competitive compensation.
2. Is Locum Tenens a Valid Career Option?
Absolutely. Locum tenens can serve different career purposes depending on your goals. New physicians often use temporary assignments to explore different specialties, geographic locations, and practice settings before committing to permanent positions. Experienced doctors may choose locums for the flexibility, travel opportunities, or higher earning potential.
Many locum tenens physicians appreciate focusing purely on patient care without the administrative burdens of permanent practice. With staffing firms, such as AMN Healthcare handling licensing, malpractice coverage, credentialing, and travel arrangements, you can concentrate on what you do best.
3. How Long Do Locum Tenens Assignments Last?
Assignment lengths vary based on facility needs and your preferences. Most locum tenens assignments range from two weeks to several months, with the average falling between four to eight weeks.
Short-term assignments might cover vacation periods or temporary staff shortages, while longer assignments could involve maternity leave coverage or filling positions while facilities recruit permanent staff. Some locum tenens physicians even receive permanent job offers from their assigned facilities, making these assignments effective "trial runs" for both parties.
4. How Do Locum Tenens Physicians Get Paid?
Locum tenens physicians typically earn competitive per diem rates, often higher than permanent salaries when factoring in overtime, call coverage, and weekend work. Payment structures vary by specialty and location, but many locums report earning more than their permanently employed counterparts.
Beyond base compensation, most staffing agencies cover additional expenses including travel, housing, malpractice insurance, and licensing fees, reducing your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
5. Where Will I Be Working?
The beauty of locum tenens lies in its geographic flexibility. Opportunities exist nationwide, from small rural communities to major metropolitan areas. You might find yourself practicing in scenic locations like Alaska or Colorado, bustling cities like New York or Los Angeles, or charming small towns you've never heard of.
This variety allows you to experience different patient populations, healthcare systems, and regional medical practices while building a diverse professional network.
6. Where Will I Live During My Assignment?
Housing arrangements depend on assignment length and location. For shorter assignments, you might stay in hotels or furnished apartments. Longer assignments often include rental homes or condos with full amenities.
Most staffing agencies handle housing arrangements and cover associated costs. For extended assignments, many physicians bring their families along, with agencies helping coordinate family-friendly accommodations.
7. What About Malpractice Insurance?
Reputable locum tenens staffing firms provide comprehensive malpractice insurance coverage for all assignments. However, it's crucial to understand the details of your coverage, including policy limits, covered activities, and tail coverage arrangements.
Before accepting any assignment, ask about the malpractice carrier's reputation, coverage limits, and A.M. Best rating. Ensure the policy covers your specific specialty and the types of procedures you'll be performing.
8. Will Patients and Staff Accept Me as a Temporary Physician?
Modern healthcare has embraced locum tenens as a standard staffing solution. Unlike decades past, temporary physicians are now welcomed as valuable team members who bring fresh perspectives and expertise.
Healthcare facilities have improved their onboarding processes for locum tenens physicians, ensuring smooth integration with existing staff. Most patients understand that temporary coverage maintains continuity of care, especially when their regular physician is unavailable.
Bonus Question: What Happens If There's a Problem
While issues with locum tenens physicians are rare, healthcare facilities have strategies in place to address any potential challenges promptly and effectively. Clear contracts, comprehensive onboarding, and open communication channels form the foundation of problem resolution.
If an issue arises, staffing agencies often provide support to mediate and offer solutions, such as replacing a physician if necessary. These safeguards ensure that patient care remains the top priority, and facilities can trust the process to handle unforeseen situations seamlessly. Ultimately, a proactive and collaborative approach minimizes disruptions, reinforcing the reliability of locum tenens as a trusted staffing model.
Ready to Explore Locum Tenens Opportunities?
Locum tenens offers physicians flexibility, competitive pay, and diverse experiences that traditional roles often lack. For early-career doctors, it’s a chance to gain experience, explore specialties, and find the right practice setting.
For seasoned physicians, it offers a change of pace, relief from burnout, or a pathway to semi-retirement while staying active. Success lies in partnering with reliable staffing firms that prioritize your needs and support you through assignments.
With the right approach, locum tenens can be a rewarding career choice. Are you ready to take the next step in your career path?
