Locum PA Specialties: Where Your Skills are Most Valued

If you’ve successfully completed your education and training to become a physician assistant, congratulations! You have officially joined the ranks of one of the fastest growing occupations in America. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, PA careers are expected to grow by as much as 31 percent by 2028 as we replace PAs who have transferred into other careers or left the workforce. And it’s not just a good job market for full-time employment. There’s a demand for part-time physician assistants, too.  

Higher Demand

As jobs everywhere take on the look and feel of a “gig economy,” we’re seeing more and more medical professionals choose to take extended sabbaticals or move to part-time schedules – meaning there’s more demand for locum tenens PAs than ever before. 

Just look at the salaries. While the average median annual wage for a physician assistant is $130,020, the average median annual wage for a locum tenens PA is $208,000.  

Value Added

And where exactly are PA skills most valued? 

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, PAs are increasingly needed to provide remote patient consultations and care. And, as communities strive to make healthcare more accessible for all, PAs are often found in outpatient settings such as clinics and urgent cares. Then, you have PAs who specialize in areas such as: 

  • Surgery 
  • Dermatology 
  • Orthopedics 
  • Emergency Medicine 
  • Psychiatry 

PA Setting

PAs play a vital role in caring for patients in a variety of settings, which means PAs have a variety of work environments to choose from and can choose a setting that best fits their temperament and career path. From hospitals and surgery centers to private practice specialties, the options are almost limitless – and you can choose a contract for a few weeks, a few months, and in some cases, even years. 

Locum tenens has truly become a popular career choice for PAs seeking a flexible schedule, great pay and the power to chart their own professional path.  

SUMO Medical Staffing has a proven track record in helping nurse practitioners find 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.