Life as a Locum Tenens: Freedom, Flexibility and Diverse Experiences
Ask any locum tenens provider what they like best about their work and you’ll probably hear one, if not all three of these words: freedom, flexibility and experience.
In today’s world of healthcare, options are limitless, especially when you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone or are specifically looking for placement in parts of the country – or in medical environments – where you’ve never worked before!
Flexibility
As a locum tenens provider, you get to decide when you want to work, and where. During the interview and contracting process, take the opportunity to choose a schedule that works best for you. Do you enjoy working nights? Do you prefer a weekend schedule? Or would you rather stick to a more traditional week day rotation?
You can plan your calendar out months in advance or wait for last-minute assignments. Locum tenens allows you to choose and create the work-life balance you need. You can work as much or as little as you like.
Freedom
Many providers who choose locum tenens appreciate the reduced administrative duties that come with the role. There are fewer meetings, less paperwork, and, you get an agency to support you with the nuances of credentialing and licensing.
This freedom gives you the opportunity to focus solely on patient care. But it also gives you chance to change your mind. If you find yourself in a work environment that isn’t challenging enough, or you want to move on to a different city, you can!
While some locum providers are happy to accept long term contracts, there’s freedom in knowing you can sign up for a few weeks or a month and move on to something new!
New Experiences
Speaking of new, diverse experiences are one of the big reasons many healthcare providers pursue locum tenens job placement. If you’re looking to explore what’s out there, working in various facilities, being exposed to different patient populations and clinical environments, locum tenens may be the right choice for you.
While some locum providers choose their next assignment based on location, some choose their assignments based on the job. The idea being, if you enjoy the professional setting and the work you’re doing, you’re probably going to enjoy the entire experience – no matter the location!
Though it isn’t for everyone, the beauty of locum tenens is that you can try this career choice and see how it fits!
Take the Next Step
Once you’ve decided to explore your options as a locum urgent care provider, you want to make sure to find a medical staffing company you can trust. SUMO Medical Staffing has a proven track record in helping healthcare professionals find locum jobs that best fit their specific needs. Our staffing representatives are ready to discuss your career goals and future. Request a consultation with a locum tenens staffing specialist today.