Locum Tenens FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Locum Tenens Jobs:

What is a locum tenens?
A locum tenens jobs is a contractual, or temporary position. The length of these positions can vary greatly (i.e. 7 days, 4 weeks, 6 months, etc.) and depend on many variables. The term is derived from the Latin phrase of the same name, which translates as, “to hold place of”.

What are the benefits of working as a locum tenens?
There are many benefits to working in a locum tenens position. Locum tenens physicians often enjoy higher pay rates, the chance to decide the location and type of setting they wish to practice in, the flexibility to build their own schedules, and a larger variety of medical cases.

Why do medical facilities use locum tenens physicians?
There are many facilities choose locum tenens candidates. In many cases, staffing complications that need a quick resolution, such as sabbaticals, vacations, or maternity leave, can be filled easily and efficiently by locum tenens. Also, patient over-load and/or staff restructuring can also cause a temporary demand for locum tenens.

What should I look for in a locum tenens company?
A good locum tenens staffing agency should have a broad client base, serve many different locations, and work within many different facets and genres of the healthcare industry. In addition, you should ensure that the company offers proper benefits such as medical malpractice insurance, and has an available support staff to handle compliance and credentialing, as well as finance and housing.

What is the average length of a locum tenens assignment?
The length of a locum tenens assignment can range from as little as a week, or up to several years. 2-6 month contracts are usually the norm, but as a locum tenens, it is up to you to choose a choose a schedule that meets your personal preferences.

What are the requirements to work as a locum tenens physician?
Aside from the necessary medical degrees, you will need the proper physician licensure from the state in which you choose to work. Additional requirements may vary based on the particular job. Your staffing agency should assist you with all of the necessary licensures, legal procedures, and state-specific documentation for the position you are applying to.

What are the costs of using a locum tenens staffing agency?
To the physician – there are none. Locum tenens can simply choose the assignments they wish to work. There is no requirement to commit to any certain contract or position that may be undesirable to the physician. There are neither requirement fees, nor any pre-determined amount of required work. Contracts can be accepted or rejected based on the physician’s personal preferences and at their own discretion.

May I bring my family with me?
Yes! Appropriate accommodations can be arranged for physicians that prefer to travel with their spouse and/or family. This is often recommended for longer-term locum tenens positions. Condominium housing is probably most common, but other options may be available as well.