Navigating locum tenens: a physician’s guide to flexible work

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Locum tenens provides exciting opportunities for physicians, as they can take on more flexible work assignments, travel for work, and receive a higher salary for the work they do. To take part in locum tenens, it’s important for physicians to know what to expect and what help is available for them. The following are some of the things a physician should know before starting their first assignment. 

Look for Potential Assignments

With locum tenens for a physician, the physician gets to choose the assignments they want to work on. This gives them greater flexibility in what they’ll be doing, when they work, and even where they work. It is important to read through the contract for the assignment carefully to see what is included, what is needed, and anything else the physician should know before getting started. Once they agree to the terms, they can get started. 

Have Everything Ready Before the Assignment

It is important to make sure the physician has everything they need to be able to do the assignment. This can include different licenses, the ability to work in that location, where they’ll live and how they’ll get to work, and more. It is recommended to have all of this figured out before the assignment begins, but there is help available for physicians when they take on a new assignment. 

Ask About Travel and Housing Arrangements

A physician doesn’t have to stay local when they’re looking at assignments. In fact, this could be a great way to travel for work and to get to see many different places. Typically, the facility will handle travel and housing arrangements for the physician to help them get settled into the new city. Depending on the length of the assignment, it might be beneficial to look for an apartment to rent. For shorter assignments, physicians may choose a short-term rental or a hotel. 

Communicate With the Healthcare Facility

The physician should communicate with the healthcare facility they’ll be working for as soon as possible. The facility can provide more information, such as where to go on their first day, what they need to bring with them, what work they’ll be doing, and more. Ask questions when talking to the facility to learn more about the assignment, what is needed, and what the job will look like. This way, the physician knows what to expect when they get started. 

Be Aware of Finance Considerations

Physicians who do locum tenens will need to handle quite a bit on their own, but guidance is available. It is important for those who take on locum tenens assignments to ensure they are paying attention to their finances. Since they will be considered self-employed, they will need to set aside money to pay state and federal taxes. They may also have to keep up with licensing fees, pay for their own medical insurance, and put money into their retirement savings accounts on their own. 

If you’re a physician looking for exciting new options for work or you need more flexibility in your work schedule, locum tenens can be a great option. Take the time to learn more about how locum tenens works, what to expect from your first assignment, and how to sign up to see if this is the right option for you. 

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