Locum tenens serve as a vital solution to the ongoing shortage of advanced practitioners and physicians. Hospitals and healthcare facilities are increasingly relying on locums to bridge staffing gaps and ensure continuity of care. Despite the effectiveness and value locum physicians and advanced practitioners bring to healthcare facilities nationwide, misconceptions about locum tenens careers continue to persist. That's why we're here to debunk seven common myths associated with locum tenens work, shedding light on the benefits.
Myth #1: Locum Tenens Practice is Predominantly Geared Toward Semi-Retired Doctors.
Truth: Regardless of where you are in your career, locum tenens work is always an option worth considering.
Just completed your residency or fellowship? Locum jobs offer valuable clinical exposure. Mid-career and looking to enhance specific techniques? Locum jobs provide opportunities to practice in fresh environments. Nearing retirement and seeking to maintain clinical activity? Locum tenens work allows you to maintain clinical activity. Beginning a locum tenens career at any career stage can be a fulfilling and adaptable career path.
Myth #2: Locum Tenens Jobs are Only for Those Interested in Travel.
Truth: Locum tenens jobs are available close to home or miles away.
Locum tenens jobs are offered nationwide, granting you the flexibility to work 10 miles from home or 3,000 miles away. This level of career control allows you to choose not only when you work but also where you work. Whether you prefer to stay close to home while caring for your local community or desire to explore bustling cities or rural areas in need of care, locum tenens jobs cater to either of your preferences!
Myth #3: Locum Tenens Work does not Provide a Consistent Source of Stability or Income.
Truth: Locum tenens work offers a reliable and stable income stream, especially in light of the nation's growing advanced practitioners and physician shortages.
The shortage of physicians and advanced practitioners has led to a continuous need for locum tenens support. Locum tenens jobs can vary in length. Long-term assignments offer increased stability for those who prefer not to change their work settings frequently. Whereas short-term assignments are readily available and typically offer higher hourly rates. There is a high demand for physicians and advanced practice providers nationwide, which has led to increased compensation, especially in areas with shortages. As a result, working as a locum tenens physician or advanced practitioner can provide a fulfilling and stable career option with a reliable income.
Myth #4: Locum Tenens Work will Negatively Impact My CV or Credentials.
Truth: Locum tenens work can strengthen your CV and credentials!
Through locum tenens jobs, you'll be exposed to diverse clinical settings and have the chance to learn new approaches to add to your practice, allowing you to grow as a medical professional. As you continuously broaden your expertise and skills, facility managers and recruiters will be eager to hire you by recognizing the valuable contributions you can bring to their healthcare teams.
Myth #5: I Can't Work Locum Jobs if I Have a Permanent Position or Own a Practice.
Truth: Locum tenens offers physicians and advanced practitioners the opportunity to work temporary positions, even if they have permanent roles or own a medical practice.
This flexible arrangement allows permanent physicians and advanced practitioners to provide coverage during scheduled time off, enabling you to earn additional income, gain diverse experiences, and explore different practice environments.
Myth #6: Permanent Providers Don't Want Locum Tenens There.
Truth: Permanent providers appreciate the presence of locum tenens physicians and advanced practitioners.
In times of staffing shortages, hospitals, and healthcare facilities rely on locum tenens physicians and advanced practitioners to fill crucial gaps in coverage. Locums play a vital role by providing support during vacation time, maternity leave, or during peaks in patient volumes. Oftentimes, locum assistance is invaluable in alleviating physician burnout among permanent staff. Rather than being unwanted, locum tenens are considered an integral part of the team, and the permanent staff gratefully acknowledges their contributions.
Myth #7: Locum Tenens Physicians are Unable to Build Rapport With Their Patients.
Truth: Locum tenens physicians and advanced practitioners have the advantage of avoiding hospital politics and administrative burdens, allowing them to prioritize patient care.
When on assignment, you're not weighed down by as many bureaucratic tasks as those in permanent positions, which means you can dedicate more time and attention to patient care. Moreover, not all assignments are for short periods; some locum tenens physicians and advanced practitioners take recurring assignments at the same locations, offering the opportunity to form lasting, meaningful relationships with patients.
Partnering with a Locum Agency to Maximize Your Locum Tenens Career
Now that we've debunked the myths of locum work, it's easy to see that there are many benefits of locum tenens careers. Partnering with a locum agency can make the transition to locum tenens even easier and more rewarding.
At Medicus, we focus on your career aspirations by offering support tailored to you. This ensures your transition to locum work is seamless, no matter where you are in your medical career. From assisting with licensing and credentialing to organizing travel plans, our dedicated team works to guarantee a smooth locum experience. Plus, our unique My Medicus Loyalty Program elevates your partnership with individualized benefits, travel perks, and exclusive events, making your decision to collaborate with us even more rewarding.
Start your locum career with confidence and experience the Medicus difference. Fill out the form below to connect with a Medicus Healthcare Solutions recruiter today!
