While many physicians accept full-time jobs at hospitals and other medical facilities, some choose to work in locum tenens positions. This term translates to “one holding a place,” but many think of a locum tenens job as simply a temporary position, because that’s what it is – these are short-term jobs that professionals take for a number of different reasons.
A locum tenens physician may fill in for another, full-time doctor who has gone on a short-term leave of absence for some reason. Others temporarily take on vacated positions while the hospital is interviewing candidates for the job. Other locum tenens professionals accept short-term jobs at clinics that have seen a major increase in new patients or workload. They provide help until the clinic can create new positions and find permanent workers to fill them.
There are a number of reasons why someone would want to work in one of these temporary positions. First, they allow for a flexible work schedule. Locum tenens physicians can take on work when they need it and take a break after the job ends if they want. They also get to travel since these positions open up all over the country. Their travel expenses may even be paid as part of the job’s pay. Some professionals who work full-time might take a local locum tenens job just to make a little bit of extra money.
Taking a locum tenens job is also a great way of learning about a related field and gaining experience in that area. This can be helpful when looking for a new job or when trying to get a promotion. It is also a great way for recent graduates to get a taste of different areas and jobs if they are not sure what type of job they want. Some locum tenens positions may even turn into permanent jobs.
Of course, there are a few downsides, too. Travel is often required, which can make it hard to maintain a permanent residence or relationship. There is no guarantee of work, either. These jobs rarely come with insurance and other benefits and, because Locum Tenens physicians are independent contractors, they have to pay more in social security.