As a physician or advanced practice professional, you bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, but transitioning to a career as a Locum Tenens still presents its own set of challenges. While gaining experience and skills is crucial, it’s equally important to understand the workings of the Locum Tenens industry. As a newcomer, it’s natural to make a few missteps along the way. But don’t worry, these can serve as valuable lessons. Here, we provide insights into the common mistakes made by previous Locums at the start of their journey and offer guidance to help you steer clear of them.
What Makes Locum Tenens Different from a Permanent Medical Position?
Locum Tenens positions involve working in various healthcare facilities across the country and adapting to new environments with each assignment. Assignment lengths can vary, but typically range from two weeks to two months. After completion, you have the option to extend your contract or move on to new opportunities. Furthermore, taking time between assignments to recharge and spend time with loved ones is possible with this flexible work option. With attractive compensation, the opportunity to broaden your medical experience and the freedom to choose your work location, it’s no wonder Locum Tenens is a popular career choice among healthcare professionals.
Maximizing Your Success with Minimal Mistakes
Malpractice Insurance
One of the most frequent mistakes made by new Locum Tenens is regarding insurance coverage. It’s important to note that the insurance coverage you have with your permanent position may not extend to your Locum Tenens role. Professional liability insurance, also known as malpractice insurance, is a necessary protection for all your assignments.
With Medscape reporting that as many as 40% of family physicians face malpractice lawsuits, securing this coverage is critical. While most Locum Tenens staffing agencies include this coverage in their packages, it’s always wise to double-check and ensure you are fully protected.
Negotiating Pay Rate
Are you aware that you can negotiate your pay rate as a Locum Tenens? Keep in mind that medicine is a business, and you should receive fair compensation for the hard work you put in. However, not every position will allow for a higher pay rate, so make sure to ask the right questions and consult with your recruiter. Additionally, don’t forget to consider factors such as holiday work, overtime, after-hours work, or hazard duty when negotiating pay. These details can be discussed with your recruiter and confirmed during your interview. Stay informed and make sure you’re getting the pay you deserve.
Do You Have The Skills And Confidence?
As a prospective Locum Tenens, it’s important to be honest with yourself about your skills and confidence level in a hospital setting. While we all like to believe we are the ideal candidate for any job, experienced Locums warn against overestimating your abilities. For instance, someone who has worked in a veteran’s hospital with end-of-life care may find their experience in an emergency room to be vastly different. It’s important to assess your comfort level and make sure you have the required knowledge for each assignment. Doing so will ensure you meet job expectations and have a positive experience in your role as a Locum Tenens.
Being Adaptable
Being confident in your abilities is important when working as a Locum Tenens, but it’s equally important to be adaptable to changing situations. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and hospitals need professionals who can adapt to new challenges. As a Locum Tenens, you play a crucial role in helping hospitals provide quality care to patients. By embracing change, remaining positive, and being open to learning new skills, you can set yourself up for success in future assignments and opportunities. If you’re someone who embraces growth and learning, you’ll be well-positioned for success.
Avoid Contractual Surprises with Proper Documentation
When accepting a Locum Tenens assignment, it’s crucial to be aware of all terms and conditions involved before making any commitments. Verbal agreements can lead to misunderstandings and lead to potentially costly mistakes. To safeguard yourself from these common Locum Tenens mistakes, take the time to thoroughly review your contract and ensure that all details are properly documented and in writing. A well-written agreement that accurately reflects your expectations can go a long way in preventing unexpected surprises down the road.
Choose A Reliable Locum Tenens Agency
Your recruitment agency is an integral part of your Locum Tenens journey. It is crucial to select a trusted, communicative, and supportive agency that always has your best interests in mind. At TheraEx Locums, we take pride in our commitment to excellence. We partner with some of the leading healthcare institutions in the country and specialize in bridging the gap between the demands of a busy clinical facility and the doctors, dentists, and advanced practice professionals we represent.
We collaborate with premier healthcare facilities across the nation and specialize in matching the demands of clinical facilities with the skills of the medical professionals we represent. To join the dynamic Locum Tenens community, connect with us today and experience a seamless and fulfilling journey.
As a beginner in the field of Locum Tenens, it’s natural to make mistakes. However, it’s crucial to learn from the experiences of others to avoid common Locum Tenens mistakes. By doing so, you can start your journey with confidence and be better equipped to handle any challenges that come your way. Embrace the spirit of continuous learning, be adaptable, and set yourself up for success in your new career.
