Understanding Locum Tenens

What does Locum Tenens mean?

The term "locum tenens" is derived from Latin, meaning "to hold the place of." Locum tenens work on a temporary basis, often occupying vacant positions until a full-time provider can be found. This phrase is most frequently used in reference to temporary clinicians who work with recruitment agencies to provide medical services for a healthcare organization. During this time, the clinician operates as an independent contractor, paid through the staffing agency, which in turn is compensated by the healthcare facility.

Locum tenens physicians and advanced practice providers (APP) are essential in ensuring coverage as the need for healthcare professionals grows in response to the projected shortage of over 100,000 doctors by 2030. With fewer students applying to medical school, locum tenens providers will continue to play a crucial part in bridging the gap in U.S. healthcare. 

If you're looking for a work style that offers more work-life balance or an increase in income for those who already have a permanent position, consider locum tenens. This work style is also great for those who want to continue growing in their career while having a flexible schedule. 

Who works locum tenens jobs?

Today, more than 50,000 clinicians work locum tenens assignments annually, and over 90% of US healthcare facilities use locums every year. Healthcare workers across all fields and specialties are regularly taking on locum tenens assignments.

At Alumni Healthcare Staffing, we partner with a wide variety of healthcare providers including physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). However, Physicians and APPS can benefit from these temporary contracts in any stage of their career.

From recent graduates to late-career clinicians, locums offer an exciting new opportunities. Find your next locums assignment here.

Why work Locum Tenens?

Locum tenens is an ideal choice for medical professionals seeking to expand their clinical skills, earn higher wages, or enjoy greater flexibility and less job burnout. Others enjoy locum tenens for the opportunity to work in different practice settings near or far from your home. At Alumni, we put our relationship with you as our top priority. Here are some of the other advantages you can enjoy when working locum tenens with us:

Supplemental Income:

Attractive compensation, no extra costs, and free malpractice insurance make locum tenens financially appealing. Even those with permanent roles often boost their earnings by taking short-term locum contracts during weekends or holidays.

Flexible Schedule:

Locum Tenens clinicians enjoy a work life balance. They have autonomy over their schedule, deciding when, where, and how frequently they prefer to work. This flexibility allows them the opportunity to explore outside interests and hobbies.

Expand your Skillset:

Locums frequently encounter diverse practice settings that enhance their professional skills. Treating a wide range of patients helps them stay current, and collaborating with different colleagues provides a fresh outlook on medicine. 

Travel:

Alumni Staffing offers locum tenens assignments in all 50 United States and D.C. Clinicians can use their locums assignment as a way to explore new places of the country.

Locums Impact in Healthcare

Locum Tenens help fill gaps in underserved areas like rural regions or places with ongoing staffing shortages. Their temporary placements significantly improve healthcare accessibility for communities that might otherwise struggle to receive adequate medical attention.

During times of increasing healthcare demand and projected physician shortages, locum tenens professionals can offer immediate support. Their flexibility in relocating to areas with limited medical staff helps maintain essential healthcare services without compromising patient care.

These professionals contribute expertise across various specialties, ensuring consistent access to specialized care. Additionally, their collaboration with permanent staff enriches healthcare settings, fostering an environment for ongoing learning and potentially improving patient outcomes.

How does it work

1. Connect: Connect with Recruiter and communicate your needs and preferences to find the ideal match for your desired pay, location, and schedule.

2. Explore Jobs: Explore jobs that match your qualifications, needs, and unique criteria.

3. Credentialing: Alumni Staffing’s credentialing team will assist with licensing and hospital privileging.

4. Travel: Alumni take care of arranging all your transportation, rental cars, and accommodations.

5. Insurance: Alumni Staffing maintains high-quality, comprehensive medical malpractice insurance coverage for all the locum tenens

6. Go to Work: We are committed to supporting you through every step of the process, and we remain available to assist you with any questions, concerns, or challenges that may arise.

7. Submit Timesheets: Use our online portal to submit your timesheets.

8. Get Paid: Expect weekly compensation for your work. After completing your current assignment, we will contact you with new opportunities or the option to extend your current one.

Whether you're an experienced locum tenens provider or just getting started, Alumni Staffing has the expertise to help you find the locum tenens assignment that is right for you. Give us a call at (908) 842-8235 to speak with a consultant or check out our list of current openings.