Have you ever wondered if locum tenens work could be the right fit for you? At the American Society of Anesthesiologists Annual Meeting's (ASA) Center Stage event, Dr. Paul Hoehner, an experienced anesthesiologist with extensive experience in both W-2 and 1099 roles, shed light on this compelling career path. As more physicians explore the flexibility and opportunities offered by locum tenens, Dr. Hoehner shared his top five recommendations to help navigate this transition smoothly.

1. Establish an LLC for Financial Advantages

Transitioning from a W-2 position to a 1099 setup can be daunting, particularly regarding finances. Dr. Hoehner's first piece of advice is to form an LLC: “The first thing you want to do, if you're thinking about it, is to form your own company… there's a lot of tax advantages.". By structuring your work through an LLC, you gain flexibility with taxes and deductions while also positioning yourself as an independent business.

2. Embrace Flexibility, Especially Early On

For those with families or young children, traveling for locum tenens can present challenges, but it also brings opportunities. Dr. Hoehner suggested flexibility as a key part of locum success: "Be flexible.". For those who may be concerned about the travel aspect, there are local locum opportunities that can reduce time away from family. He recalled that when his children were young, he traveled minimally but later appreciated the flexibility locum tenens offered for both travel and family time.

3. Use Locum Tenens to "Try Before You Buy"

One of Dr. Hoehner's most valuable lessons was the ability of locum tenens work to offer a trial period with different employers and locations. He shared a personal experience about signing a contract early in his career without fully understanding what he was committing to. "Three months into it, I hated it," he admitted, "and I was stuck for a while." With locum tenens, you can test a new role without the long-term risk: "It's a great way to check out a practice, check out a location where you want to move… without being stuck in a place.".

4. Locum Tenens Isn't for Everyone—But It's Worth Considering

While Dr. Hoehner acknowledged that locum tenens isn't ideal for everyone, especially those in a long-term position they love, he emphasized its potential for those still exploring their options. "Locums is a great way to find that really good spot without having to commit long-term," he noted. Locum tenens is a lifestyle that allows providers to shape their careers around personal and professional goals.

5 . Consider Working with a Locum Tenens Agency for Support

Dr. Hoehner strongly recommends working with a trusted locum tenens agency, such as Medicus, rather than contracting directly with hospitals. He emphasized that agencies like Medicus go beyond simply placing providers; they manage vital logistics, from securing credentialing and streamlining state licensing to ensuring guaranteed pay. "These guys work for you. It's not like you work for them," he shared, pointing out that a trusted locum tenens agency advocates for its providers, ensuring a well-suited match with each facility and stepping in if any issues arise. Reflecting on his own experience with Medicus, he added, "I say if I got a flat tire driving up to New Hampshire, I would probably call my Medicus recruiter before I called AAA.".

The support provided by Medicus ensures that physicians can seamlessly transition into locum tenens, pursue their passions, and embrace a work-life balance that reinvigorates their love for medicine. Dr. Hoehner's success story, with Medicus as a steadfast partner, is a shining example of how the right support system can turn a career into a lifelong journey filled with fulfillment and achievement.

Hear More from Dr. Hoehner During the Center Stage Event:

Dr. Paul Hoehner's journey as a locum tenens anesthesiologist is a testament to the transformative power of this career path. To learn more about his experiences and insights from the ASA Center Stage event, click here.

Interested in working locum tenens anesthesiology? Complete the short form below to connect with a Medicus Recruiter.