Between 90 and 95 percent of healthcare facilities in America rely on locum tenens providers each year in America according to recent reports from the medical sector. Those reports go on to say that more than 50,000 physicians work locum tenens positions annually. These doctors fill essential roles in the healthcare industry, bridging staffing gaps and ensuring patients consistently receive the care they need.
If you’re looking for locum tenens assignments, you need to consider several factors before accepting them. Many doctors have discovered that finding a locum tenens agency to help them secure assignments can be beneficial. Still, it’s important to keep the following points in mind to ensure you find roles that are suited to your skills, needs, and expectations.
Job Description
Understanding exactly what will be expected of you during an assignment is crucial. What will your caseload be? Will you primarily be working days, nights, or a blend of the two? Will you have help if you become overloaded? How many days or nights per week will you be on call? What types of cases will you mainly be handling? How complicated are those cases on average? Those are only a few of the essential questions you need to answer to fully understand the job you’re considering.
Length of the Assignment
Another point to consider is the length of the assignment. Some locum tenens providers prefer short assignments while others favor longer ones. Shorter assignments may give you more flexibility and a broader range of experience with different types of medical facilities. On the other hand, longer assignments may eliminate some of the chaos of being a locum tenens provider and allow you to get to know patients better. Ultimately, the choice is yours depending on your preferences, but it’s best to know how long an assignment is before accepting it.
Location and Expenses
Think about the location of the assignment and any expenses that may be associated with it as well. Will you be working in a fast-paced and diverse urban environment or a more laid-back rural setting? How far will you need to travel if you accept the assignment? Find out if the agency you’re working through or the facility you’ll be employed with covers travel expenses, housing arrangements, and other factors. In some cases, at least a portion of those responsibilities may fall on your shoulders. On the other hand, you may be given a stipend for accommodations. Factor in the cost of living in the area of the assignment, too.
Compensation
Obviously, pay is an important consideration. Find out about the compensation package you’ll receive. What will your basic salary be? What types of extra benefits does the assignment come with? Weigh those aspects against the job requirements and potential expenses to determine if the assignment is worth the pay. Considering your commitment to helping patients, salary may not be the most important factor. It’s certainly part of the picture, though.
Finding the Right Locum Tenens Assignments for You
Healthcare providers who are looking for locum tenens assignments need to consider their options carefully. Think about what your workload will be, the length of the assignment, and where you’ll be working. Consider your compensation versus the expenses that’ll be your responsibility. Any other factors that are important to you should enter the mix as well. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to determine if an assignment aligns with your expectations.
