What is Locum Tenens Surgery?

What is Locum Tenens Surgery?

The term "Locum Tenens," derived from Latin, means "to hold the place of." As a locum tenens surgeon, you provide invaluable temporary support to hospitals, trauma centers, and surgical facilities grappling with staffing shortages. This dynamic role encompasses a wide array of specialties, including general surgery, trauma surgery, and cardiothoracic surgery, ensuring that communities maintain uninterrupted access to essential surgical care.

The demand for skilled surgeons is on an upward trajectory due to the aging population and an aging workforce. According to the American Association of Medical Colleges, a shortage of 15,800-30,200 surgeons across all specialties is anticipated by 2034. Locum tenens surgeons can play a vital role in bridging this growing gap, offering their expertise and flexibility to meet the increasing demand for surgical services.

Why Work Locum Tenens Surgery?

Starting a career as a locum tenens surgeon offers a distinct advantage in achieving a fulfilling work-life balance. Unlike permanent surgeons, locum tenens surgery empowers you to take control of your schedule, working hours, and assignment durations. This level of career autonomy and adaptability enables you to coordinate your professional commitments with your personal life, effectively mitigating burnout risks and fostering a healthier work-life balance.

In addition to career autonomy, locum tenens surgeons often enjoy lighter workloads and reduced administrative pressures due to the temporary nature of their assignments. By stepping in to bridge staffing gaps, your primary focus remains on patient care, sparing you from excessive administrative duties. As a result, a career as a surgery locum tenens can provide you with heightened flexibility and the freedom to explore other passions and interests outside of your medical practice. This approach to work-life balance can contribute significantly to your overall well-being while allowing you to continue providing essential procedures to communities in need.

If you enjoy traveling while also making a meaningful mark on communities, locum tenens surgery may be for you. As a locum tenens surgeon, you have the freedom to work in vibrant cities or serene rural areas, providing essential surgical services in hospitals and other healthcare facilities facing shortages. As a bonus, Medicus handles all the logistics, leaving you the free time to focus on patient care and immersing yourself in your new community.

Alternatively, if you're seeking a balance between your career and personal commitments without sacrificing the benefits of a locum tenens career, there are also options for assignments closer to your home.

Whether you enjoy working in distant places or the comfort of your local neighborhood, locum tenens surgeon roles cater to your preferences, offering flexible opportunities aligned with your lifestyle and professional aspirations. In either scenario, you'll continue to make a positive impact on communities in need of surgeons and surgical services.

Whether you specialize in general surgery, trauma surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, or any surgical field, and you're looking for a career that offers both increased earnings and the chance to address critical staffing shortages, consider locum tenens assignments. As a locum tenens surgeon, you not only have the opportunity to make a significant impact on communities but also enjoy higher financial rewards compared to permanent surgery positions. This increase in pay is a result of the temporary nature of the job and the heightened demand for surgical expertise and procedures.

Beyond the financial benefits, locum tenens surgeons play a crucial role in addressing healthcare staffing shortages, particularly in areas where specialized care is in high demand and short supply. Whether your preference leans towards bustling urban centers or serene rural towns, locum tenens surgery opportunities can boost your income while ensuring that communities have access to timely surgical care.

Locum tenens surgery opportunities offer the ability to collaborate with a diverse array of surgeons nationwide. Through close collaboration with fellow surgeons, you can create valuable networking connections. Working with a diverse group of surgeons enriches your clinical perspectives and establishes a robust and supportive professional network that can prove invaluable to your professional growth.

Embracing a locum tenens surgeon's career can expand your clinical knowledge and skills beyond the scope of permanent general surgery jobs. By immersing yourself in various healthcare settings that may be different from your home base, you can help expand your expertise while gaining exposure to a wide range of patient populations. Working in surgery locums not only helps contribute to your professional growth but also empowers you to make a meaningful impact on different communities' surgery needs.

Featured Surgery Locum Tenens States

Find your next locums destination!
...

Indiana

...

Arizona

...

Colorado

Why Work as a Locum Tenens Surgery with Medicus?

Choose Medicus as your ally in surgical locums, and you'll access a dedicated team of industry specialists committed to guiding you through the dynamic landscape of surgical opportunities. Our services extend beyond the conventional offerings of a locum tenens agency, providing a more extensive array of prospects.

In addition to conventional locum tenens assignments, we present exclusive transition projects and openings for interim leadership roles. As an added advantage, gain insights into prevailing market trends for surgeons across all specialties. These distinctive opportunities empower you to utilize your skills and experiences to positively impact communities in need of your surgical expertise.

Whether you opt for a full-time commitment to surgical locum work or integrate it with your permanent position, Medicus grants you the flexibility to tailor your career to suit your preferences. Determine when, where, and how you want to practice, allowing us to collaborate in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Here Are a Few Reasons Why You Should Work Locum Tenens Surgery with Medicus:

Working Locum Tenens Surgery with Medicus
Working Locum Tenens Surgery with Medicus

Save the Date

Join us at the 61st Annual Meeting of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons!

STS 2025

The 61st STS Meeting is the premier annual cardiothoracic surgery event. Join colleagues and industry experts for never-before-seen science, techniques, and technology, all in Los Angeles, California! 

If you're attending STS Annual Meeting, stop by booth #442 and visit the Medicus Team!

 

Join Us at The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNSF) 2025 Annual Meeting!

AAO-HNSF 2025

Join otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons from around the world in Indianapolis,  Indiana, for the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting! Dive into cutting-edge research, explore the latest advancements in head and neck surgery, and enjoy exclusive networking events. We invite you to learn more about AAO-HNSF here. 

While attending, stop by booth #1608 to speak with the Medicus Team!

What It's Like to Work Locum Tenens Surgery with Medicus,
a Message from Our Locums Surgeons:

Exceptional Locum Tenens Partnership

"For the past three years, I have been working with Medicus. My recruiter has been the most professional, knowledgeable, communicative, and versatile recruiter I have ever worked with. She is always available and extremely efficient in resolving any issues I may have. The whole team I work with at Medicus has gone so above and beyond that I only exclusively work with Medicus and do not entertain any other locum tenens company."

- Dr. J, Trauma Surgeon

Gratitude for an Outstanding Recruiter

"My Medicus recruiter has been excellent! I am so appreciative of all the work that we have done together. He is always so personable and committed; I can't express enough thanks for him!"

- Gordan, NP

View our current Locum Tenens Surgery job openings

Trauma APP Coverage in Columbus, OH | Level II Trauma

  • Posted today
  • Ohio
  • Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is collaborating with a hospital in Columbus, Ohio, that has an opening for a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide locum Trauma coverage. Opening Highlights: Level II Adult Trauma Center Flexible scheduling, Monday-Friday Setting: Inpatient Patient Population: All ages...
Read more »

Long-Term General Surgery Locum Opportunity in Richmond, VA

  • Posted 2 days ago
  • Virginia
  • Physician
  • General Surgery
  • Locum
A leading hospital in Richmond, Virginia, has an opening for a General Surgeon to provide long-term locum coverage. Opening Details: Schedule: 3-4 consecutive days of 24-hour coverage, 7a-7a, specific dates Patient Population: Adolescent, adult, and geriatric Case Volume: 2-5 surgical cases per...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery PA Call Coverage in Savannah, GA

  • Posted 5 days ago
  • Georgia
  • Physician Assistant
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
A leading medical center in Savannah, Georgia, has an opportunity for a skilled Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant to provide locum call coverage. Opportunity Overview: Schedule: Friday 7a to Monday 7a, one weekend per month Patient Volume: 8 per day Duties: Call coverage and CVICU...
Read more »

Orthopedic Trauma Surgery Locum in Southern TX | 24-Hour Call Coverage

  • Posted 5 days ago
  • Texas
  • Physician
  • Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery
  • Locum
An established facility in southern Texas has an opportunity for an Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon to assist their team short-term. Opportunity Overview: Schedule: 24-hour weekday and weekend call coverage Patient Volume: 10 per day Duties: Trauma surgery coverage and inpatient consultations EMR:...
Read more »

Wound Care APP Opportunity in Northern GA | No Call

  • Posted 8 days ago
  • Georgia
  • Physician
  • General Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is working with a clinic in northern Georgia that has an opportunity for a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide ongoing locum Wound Care coverage. Opportunity Overview: Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8a-4:30p No call requirement Patient Volume: 12-14 per day, 20 max Setting:...
Read more »

Trauma/General Surgery Holiday Coverage in Eastern VA

  • Posted 9 days ago
  • Virginia
  • Physician
  • General Surgery, Trauma Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus has partnered with a medical center in eastern Virginia that has an opportunity for a Trauma/General Surgeon to provide short-term holiday coverage. Opportunity Details: Schedule: 24-hour beeper call, Tuesday 7a-Thursday 7a Patient Volume: 5-10 consults per day Patient Population:...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery Coverage in Southern MI

  • Posted 13 days ago
  • Michigan
  • Physician
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is collaborating with a hospital in southern Michigan that has an opportunity for a Cardiothoracic Surgeon to provide long-term coverage. About the Opportunity: Schedule: 8-hour day shifts Beeper call EMR: Epic Board certification required Paid travel & expenses During your free time,...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery APP Opening in Southern Michigan

  • Posted 13 days ago
  • Michigan
  • Physician Assistant
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
A hospital in southern Michigan has an opening for a Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide locum coverage. Opening Highlights: Schedule: 8a-5p Beeper call EMR: Epic Must be board-certified Paid travel & expenses In your spare time, hike scenic trails in...
Read more »

General Surgeon Locum Opening in South-Central WI | Full-Time Call Coverage

  • Posted 15 days ago
  • Wisconsin
  • Physician
  • General Surgery
  • Locum
A reputable hospital in south-central Wisconsin has an opening for a General Surgeon to assist their team short-term. Opportunity Details: Schedule: Full-time call coverage, onsite 8a-5p Patient Volume: 1-5 per day Beds: 43 Cases: General surgery Solo coverage EMR: Epic Board certification...
Read more »

APP Orthopedic Trauma Surgery Call - Myrtle Beach, SC

  • Posted 16 days ago
  • South Carolina
  • Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Locum
A medical center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is seeking a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide Orthopedic Trauma Surgery coverage. Opportunity Details: Schedule: 6a-3p, Monday-Friday Call: Rotating night call, 24-hour weekend call Daily Volume: 20 patients Level I Trauma...
Read more »

Trauma Surgery APP Opening in Charleston, SC

  • Posted 19 days ago
  • South Carolina
  • Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus has partnered with a leading medical center in Charleston, South Carolina, with an opening for a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide short-term locum Trauma Surgery coverage. Opening Highlights: Schedule: 12-hour ICU day shifts, 24-hour trauma beeper call, specific dates ...
Read more »

Locum Orthopedic Surgeon Opportunity in Northeastern SC

  • Posted 21 days ago
  • South Carolina
  • Physician
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus has partnered with a hospital in northeastern South Carolina with an opportunity for an Orthopedic Surgeon to assist their team. About the Opportunity: Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9-hour shifts Clinic and office call Monday-Friday Setting: Monday, Wednesday, Friday in OR, Tuesday & Thursday...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery APP Opening in Western IN - First Assist

  • Posted 26 days ago
  • Indiana
  • Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
A hospital in western Indiana has an opening for a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to provide locum Cardiothoracic Surgery coverage. About the Opening: Schedule: Monday-Friday, 10-hour shifts, 10-14 shifts per month Beeper call shifts required First Assist Must do vein harvesting EMR:...
Read more »

Locum Trauma Surgery Opening in Hartford, CT - Level I Trauma

  • Posted 28 days ago
  • Connecticut
  • Physician
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Locum
A Level I Trauma hospital in Hartford, Connecticut, has an opening for a Trauma Surgeon to assist their team. About the Opening: Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7a-4p, 3 weeknights per week, 4p-7a Saturday/Sunday call, 7a-7a Surgical Case Volume: 5 per day Annual ER Volume: 80,000 Patient Ages:...
Read more »

Pediatric Surgery Locum in Southern Arizona - 24-Hr Call

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Arizona
  • Physician
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Locum
A medical center in southern Arizona has an excellent opportunity for a Pediatric Surgeon to provide locum coverage. About the Opening: Schedule: 24-hour call shifts, specific dates Trauma Level: I EMR: Cerner Board certification required IMLC is accepted Paid travel & lodging This opening...
Read more »

Orthopedic Surgery Opportunity in Southeastern New Hampshire

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • New Hampshire
  • Physician
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus has an opportunity for an Orthopedic Surgeon to provide locum coverage at a hospital in southeast New Hampshire. About the Opening: Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8-hour day shifts Call Rotation: Weekday 1:8, Weekend 1:7 Level III Trauma Center Daily Census: 25 clinic patients, 4-5 OR patients ...
Read more »

Orthopedic Surgery Locum Opening in Western MA

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Massachusetts
  • Physician
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is partnering with a hospital in western Massachusetts with an opportunity for an Orthopedic Surgeon to assist their team. About the Opening: Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8-hour day shifts Call Rotation: 1:4 Daily Census: 10-15 clinic patients, 1-2 OR patients Procedures: General ortho,...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery Locum Opportunity in Central Michigan

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Michigan
  • Physician
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is partnering with a hospital in central Michigan with an opportunity for a Cardiothoracic Surgeon to assist their team. About the Opening: Schedule: 24-hour call shifts, specific dates Cases: Bread & butter, open heart surgery Case Logs: 75 in the last 12 months EMR: Athena Support...
Read more »

Orthopedic Trauma Surgery Opportunity in Charleston, SC - 24-Hour Call Shifts

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • South Carolina
  • Physician
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus has partnered with a facility in Charleston, South Carolina, with an opportunity for an Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon to provide locum coverage. About the Opportunity: Schedule: 24-hour call shifts, 6 days per month Patient Volume: 15 per day Cases: Orthopedic trauma Pelvic and acetabulum...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery Opportunity in Fort Worth, Texas

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Texas
  • Physician
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
A hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, has an opportunity for a Cardiothoracic Surgeon to provide locum coverage. Opportunity Highlights: Level I trauma facility Schedule: 24-hour call shifts Emergency procedures only No TAVRs Must be comfortable with aortic dissection EMR: Epic Board certification...
Read more »

General Surgery Locum 1-Hr from Denver, CO

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Colorado
  • Physician
  • General Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is collaborating with a medical center an hour from Denver, Colorado, with an opening for a General Surgeon to assist their team. Opening Details: Schedule: 24-hour call shifts, specific dates Will see urgent referred clinic patients Must be board-certified or board-eligible Complimentary...
Read more »

PICU APP Coverage 30-Mins from Dallas, TX

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Texas
  • Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Locum
A medical center 30 minutes from Dallas, Texas, has an opening for a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to assist their Pediatric ICU. Opening Details: Schedule: 24-hour shifts Types of Patients: Asthmatics, DKA, ingestions, chronic ventilations EMR: Epic Paid travel & expenses If you are...
Read more »

Orthopedic Surgery Opportunity in Myrtle Beach, SC

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • South Carolina
  • Physician
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is partnering with a medical center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, that has an opportunity for an Orthopedic Surgeon to assist their team. About the Opportunity: Schedule: 24-hour call shifts Level I trauma center Daily Patient Volume: 10 Duties: Rounding and consults Pelvic and...
Read more »

General Surgery Opportunity in Northern Colorado

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Colorado
  • Physician
  • General Surgery
  • Locum
A medical center in northern Colorado has an opening for a General Surgeon to assist their team. Opening Highlights: Schedule: 24-hour call shifts, specific dates Level III trauma facility EMR: Cerner Board certification required Paid travel & expenses If you are interested, please apply to...
Read more »

General Surgery Coverage in South-Central SD

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • South Dakota
  • Physician
  • General Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is collaborating with a facility in south-central South Dakota that has an opportunity for a General Surgeon to provide locum coverage. About the Opportunity: Schedule: 24-hour call shift, specific dates Daily Patient Census: 7-10 EMR: Epic Must have the ability to perform C-sections ...
Read more »

Cardiothoracic Surgery Locum in Colorado - 24-Hr Call

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • Colorado
  • Physician
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus is partnering with a hospital in northern Colorado, 1 hour from Denver, with an opening for a Cardiothoracic Surgeon to provide locum coverage. Opportunity Details: Schedule: 24-hour call Will cover multiple locations EMR: Cerner Must be board-certified Paid travel & lodging If you are...
Read more »

Trauma Surgery Opportunity in Central South Carolina

  • Posted 30 days ago
  • South Carolina
  • Physician
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Locum
Medicus has an opportunity for a Trauma Surgeon to provide locum coverage at a medical center in central South Carolina. Opportunity Details: Level II trauma center Schedule: 10-hour day shifts No call Procedures Required: Mainly blunt trauma, penetrating trauma, emergent procedures with general...
Read more »
View All Jobs