Locum assignments have their perks!
According to Webster’s the Latin ‘locum tenens’, or locum for short, means, “placeholder” or “holding the place of another” and while it can refer to any position it’s most often used in reference to a clergyman or physician. In the case of healthcare professionals, it means temporarily filling in at a hospital or other care facility that finds itself short-staffed or with a staff member on temporary leave. Although freelance locum professionals are not unheard of the vast majority work through an agency dedicated to matching clients with those desiring locum positions. With the current shortage of physicians and other healthcare professionals, the demand for locum personnel is high and the benefits can be very attractive. Let’s take a look below at some of the great benefits of a locum career!
Benefits of a Locum Career
Testing the Waters
On average, locum assignments last from three to six months. Locum work offers an excellent opportunity to evaluate a facility or many facilities, and the locale before accepting a permanent position, and it’s not uncommon that an assignment will lead to an offer. This is especially attractive to those just out of medical school looking for a home, for older, retired professionals looking to keep on working, or those who for one reason or another are unhappy with their current position and looking for a change. And it’s also an opportunity to develop valuable, lasting Professional relationships. “Doctors who are just finishing their residencies and are unsure of where they want to live or what kind of work they want to do often turn to locum tenens work” to help them make a better-informed decision about their career path, reports Becker’s Hospital Review.
The Excitement
Of course, for those who love to travel, locum assignments are the perfect way to mix work with pleasure, allowing just enough time in a location to get a feel for it and see the sights, make new friends and memories, before moving on to the next one. It can be an exciting and adventure filled career choice. This aspect of locum tenens work has traditionally appealed more to new physicians seeking out the right career path, and to older physicians looking for variety overcommitment as they near retirement. However, those in the middle of his or her healthcare career should also consider taking this new and exciting journey. Many health professionals express regret after not taking the chance to see the world while still Making a stellar wage. What are you waiting for?
Flexibility
When it comes to the benefits of a locum career, the flexibility is something that attracts many healthcare professionals. You can choose which assignments to take, in what location, and for how long. It’s an ideal option for those who have commitments outside of practicing medicine. If you have kids or need to take care of an older loved one, locum tenens will give you the chance to spend time with family while still enjoying a great career.
The Money and Financial Benefits
But probably the best benefit of working locum is the pay. Because of the high demand, healthcare professionals can expect to make as much as 50% more than at a permanent post. That’s with housing, insurance and travel expenses included. It can be stressful work, adapting to new positions, places, and situations constantly, but the rewards are high. Unlike physicians who run their own practice, locum tenens don’t have to worry about overhead or putting money back into the business. Since you’ll have your insurance and a variety of other expenses covered, you’ll have the extra money to explore the surrounding area. Many physicians will actually pick up a few locum tenens shifts on the weekend or over vacation simply so they can have extra money.
Those considering locum opportunities should find a reputable agency that specializes in locum assignments for healthcare professionals. An agency already has the contacts, the clients and the expertise. Working with an agency will save the hassle of finding positions, negotiating salary and benefits and all the other details and is well worth the investment.
If you’re looking to engage in an exciting and rewarding locum tenens career, check out the thousands of jobs we have to offer!
