Many physicians, whether well into their careers or just emerging from residency, encounter misconceptions about locum tenens work that may deter them from exploring this flexible career option. At the recent American Society of Anesthesiologists Annual Meeting (ASA), Medicus hosted a session at the Center Stage event featuring anesthesiologist Dr. Paul Hoehner. He addressed two of the most common myths surrounding locum tenens work that he hears, shedding light on locum tenens many advantages. 

Myth 1: Locum Tenens Isn't Ideal for New Physicians 

Fact: Locum tenens is a great way to explore various clinical settings without long-term commitment.  

A common misconception is that locum tenens isn't suitable for new physicians, but Dr. Hoehner disagrees, calling locums "a great, great opportunity.". He highlights how locum tenens allows physicians fresh out of residency to explore different clinical settings without the long-term commitment. "I wish I had done that early in my career," he shared. "When you commit to a permanent job right away, you're locked in. You've moved, invested, brought your family… and what if you don't like it?". By working locum tenens, new physicians can sample various practices, cities, and work cultures, gaining experience and insight before settling into a permanent role. 

With locum tenens, he noted, you can "try it out… no harm, no foul. If you don't like it, you move on.". He compared this approach to advice from his financial advisor: "With big purchases like houses and boats, he says rent before you buy - check it out first.". Locum tenens opportunities give physicians a chance to "check out a practice, check out a location where you want to move, stay there, and figure it out.". Dr. Hoehner added that, in today's job market, many practices are using locums as a bridge to permanent hiring, allowing physicians to experience a practice firsthand before committing. 

If you're interested in learning more about how locum tenens can support work-life balance and professional growth, explore additional insights from Dr. Hoehner, explore our previous blog, "Achieving Work-Life Balance and Professional Growth with Locum Tenens."

Myth 2: Locum Tenens Careers aren't Compatible with Academic Medicine 

Fact: Locum tenens can enhance academic involvement.  

Another common myth is that locum tenens careers conflict with academic medicine. As an academic physician himself, Dr. Hoehner has found this to be entirely untrue. "As an academic physician… it just absolutely freed me up to do things I would not normally be able to do," he explained.  

Working locum tenens enables him to remain actively involved in training residents and fellows, participate in academic projects, and maintain a presence at an academic medical center. For those with an academic focus, locum tenens offers the flexibility to pursue teaching and research without sacrificing professional involvement. 

Ultimately, Dr. Hoehner sees locum tenens as a valuable, flexible path for all physicians, particularly those right out of residency and those interested in academics. From trying out different locations and practice types to securing solid experience and pay, locum tenens careers offer a way to enter a fulfilling medical career without the immediate constraints of long-term commitments. 

Curious how a spouse views the locum tenens lifestyle? Dr. Hoener's wife, Sheryl, shared her unique insights during the Center Stage presentation. Read our blog, "A Spouse's Perspective on the Benefits of Locum Tenens."

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