While many physicians find their specialties through years of exploration, Dr. Brian Turner knew his path the moment he stepped into his OB/GYN rotation.
"When I went through medical school and did my OB/GYN rotation, I saw babies born for the first time," Dr. Turner explained. "I knew immediately that's what I wanted to do as a doctor."
That moment of clarity launched a career that has spanned more than two decades. From full-time clinical practice to serving on the National Board for March of Dimes and now integrating locum tenens work alongside his permanent role, Dr. Turner has remained focused on ensuring access to OB/GYN care.
Returning to Locum Tenens to Meet Community Needs
Dr. Turner briefly worked locum tenens early in his career but reengaged in 2024 when he joined Medicus. The decision to step back into the locum space was grounded in something familiar: a strong pull to provide care where it’s needed most.
Within his region, he was aware of a hospital in critical need of coverage within its OB department. When he learned Medicus had an opportunity there, he knew he needed to act on it. For Dr. Turner, "being able to work in rural areas where there is a definite need for healthcare services" is what motivated him to return to locum tenens work.
Now, he works as a locum OB/GYN in addition to his full-time job, where his dedication to ensuring access to care goes beyond his schedule. For Dr. Turner, it’s about showing up and bringing consistent care to the communities that rely on it.
Navigating Locum Assignments Alongside a Full-Time Role
While balancing full-time work and locum tenens assignments takes commitment, Dr. Turner finds it deeply rewarding. He credits much of that to the support he receives through Medicus.
"Working with my recruiter and working with Medicus are definitely pros," Dr. Turner explained. "Honestly, it has been such a rewarding experience, so I encourage everyone to give locums a try!"
Just over a year into his locum tenens journey, Dr. Turner recalls one moment that continues to shape his perspective. It was a complex obstetrical emergency, the kind that tests both training and resolve. The outcome was a healthy mother and baby, but what stayed with him was the gravity of the moment. As he described it, the most meaningful part was "saving a life."
Experiences like that remind him why he became an OB/GYN and why he continues to work locum tenens. It is not about flexibility: it's about being in the right place at the right time for the patients who need him.
Balancing Long-Term Commitments with Locum Tenens Flexibility
As physician shortages continue to impact health systems across the country, Dr. Turner sees locum tenens as an essential part of the solution.
"I believe that locum tenens will continue to expand as the healthcare environment changes," he explained, "and I hope to continue my locum experience with those changes." He remains committed to showing up where care is needed most and sees his ongoing locum work as a way to support that mission.
Outside of medicine, his priorities are just as clear. He put it simply: "First and foremost, being a dad and a husband," he expressed. That foundation keeps him grounded, offering perspective and balance in a demanding profession. He also finds energy and focus through exercise, especially running, which plays a consistent role in his daily life.
For Dr. Turner, the future of healthcare may be shifting, but his purpose is not. Whether caring for patients in a rural hospital or spending time with his family, he continues to lead with compassion, commitment, and a clear sense of what matters most.
Encouraging Others to Explore Locum Tenens Work
For physicians and residents considering locum tenens OB/GYN opportunities, Dr. Turner offers simple advice: "Give it a try! Look into it and you will find it's a really awesome experience."
That encouragement comes from firsthand experience. Over the past year, he has seen the impact of locum tenens work not only on patients but on his own career and sense of purpose. The relationships he has built, the communities he has served, and the support he has received all shape the way he talks about the locum tenens lifestyle. "I appreciate everyone at Medicus, the wonderful experience I've had, and the amazing hospital I am working with."
Dr. Turner's story is grounded in consistency, compassion, and service. Whether in a full-time role or on a locum assignment, he continues to lead with the same commitment that brought him to medicine in the first place: to make a difference in people's lives.
Interested in working locum tenens OB/GYN with Medicus? Complete the short form below to connect with a Medicus recruiter.
