Often, when asked why someone chose to become an anesthesiologist, the answer centers around the joys of dealing with pharmacology, physiology, and procedures. However, for Anesthesiologist Dr. Beth Richards it was the positive interpersonal interactions that ignited her passion for the specialty. Dr. Richards explained, “What stood out to me during my first rotation as a medical student was the interaction with the anesthesia specialists who were deeply committed to teaching and mentoring. It was this positive interpersonal interaction that opened the door to this specialty in medicine that would become my profession.”.

From Academics to Locum Tenens

For 33 years, working in academia alongside those who influenced her career, Dr. Richards sought a change that would grant her greater flexibility without compromising her professional growth. She explained, “I needed flexibility in my work schedule in to balance work and personal interests. The issue was that the terms of my full-time institutional employment would not allow me to redirect my goals.”. Through interactions with colleagues who had chosen careers as locum anesthesiologists, Dr. Richards quickly realized that the spectrum of opportunities was wide, allowing remarkable flexibility – exactly what she was seeking.

Impactful Experiences and Work-Life Balance

Since pursuing a career as a locum tenens anesthesiologist, Dr. Richards has experienced unparalleled work-life balance, expressing, “I cannot emphasize enough the flexibility and freedom that I have gained since starting work as locum tenens. I choose where, when, and how much I like to work. At the same time, I am aware I am helping colleagues who are very short staffed by committing to help. I am part of a team and experience a great deal of appreciation.” In addition to the impact and freedom locum tenens offers Dr. Richards, she has gained a rewarding experience with the support she receives from her provider consultant at Medicus. She shared, “Every step of the way, the line of communication has been excellent, and problems have been solved promptly. In general, I am pleased to experience a respectful welcome and positive interactions in my new work environment.”.

Tailoring Opportunities to Personal Preferences

While it's commonly believed that locum tenens opportunities involve extensive travel, the reality is quite different. With assignments available nationwide, physicians and advanced practitioners have the freedom to select where they work, even opting for assignments close to home. For Dr. Richards, extensive travel was out of the question, so she chose locum assignments within proximity. "I can work in my area of expertise and be home for dinner," she elaborated. "If traveling and experiencing novel places becomes important to me, equally suitable options can be made available." Illustrating how physicians can enjoy the benefits of locum tenens work while remaining rooted in familiar surroundings.

Dr. Beth Richards’s career journey has been one of inspiration, adaptability, and a deep commitment to her profession. Through her transition into locum tenens work, she continues to make a significant impact while enjoying the flexibility and freedom it offers. As she reflects on her experiences, Dr. Richards emphasizes the quote: “Make sure you enjoy what you do, to assure you never work a day in your life.”.

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