Locum tenens, Latin for “to hold the place”, refers to physicians working temporary assignments to fill in for others. It’s an increasingly common practice among physicians in the U.S.
Whether you’re just out of residency, mid-career and seeking a change, or near retirement, locum tenens can offer you flexibility and new opportunities. Let’s dive in.
What Is Locum Tenens, and Why Consider It?
Locum tenens physicians serve as temporary replacements at hospitals, clinics, or practices that need coverage. Assignments can range from a few shifts to several months. You might step in for a colleague on leave or help staff a facility with a provider shortage. This arrangement benefits facilities and communities by bridging staffing gaps, and it offers physicians unique advantages as well.
Benefits of Working Locum Tenens
Physicians choose locum tenens for many reasons. Some of the top reasons cited include a more flexible schedule, extra income, the ability to travel, and avoiding burnout. Here are some key benefits of locum tenens work:
- Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: You control when and how much you work. Locum tenens lets you set your own schedule and take time off between assignments. This flexibility makes it easier to schedule family time, vacations, or pursue personal interests. Many doctors enjoy having the freedom to say “yes” or “no” to work based on their life needs, a refreshing change from rigid full-time schedules.
- Supplemental Income Potential: Locum positions often pay competitive hourly rates, so you can earn extra income without a long-term commitment. Whether you’re looking to pay off loans or save for a big purchase, locums can boost your earning potential. Some physicians even make locums their full-time career for the financial rewards. (Note: While pay is attractive, be sure to manage income wisely, as a locum tenens provider you’ll typically be an independent contractor, responsible for your own taxes.)
- Practice Variety and Travel Opportunities: Working locum tenens can feel like an adventure. You get to travel to new places (if you want) and practice in different clinical environments. One month you might be caring for patients in a rural critical-access hospital, the next you’re at a suburban clinic or a bustling urban ER. This variety keeps your work fresh and lets you experience diverse patient populations and healthcare systems. For physicians who love to travel or simply crave variety, locums is a perfect fit.
- Professional Growth and Learning: Each locum assignment is a chance to expand your skills. Adapting to new settings, different EMRs, team workflows, patient demographics, makes you a more well-rounded clinician. You’ll learn best practices from each place you work. This kind of on-the-job learning and networking can greatly enhance your resume. Locums also allows early-career physicians to explore different practice types before settling into a permanent role, and it helps seasoned doctors continue to grow professionally.
- Less Administrative Burden (Avoiding Burnout): Tired of endless meetings, hospital politics, and paperwork? Locum tenens roles let you focus more on patient care and less on bureaucracy. You won’t typically have to attend committee meetings or handle office management tasks that permanent doctors do. When your shift ends, you’re free. This lighter administrative load is a big reason many physicians pursue locums – it’s medicine minus the red tape, which can help prevent burnout. As a locum, you get to practice medicine on your terms, with far fewer non-clinical responsibilities.
- Avoiding Long-Term Commitments: Locum tenens is a great way to “try before you buy” in different workplaces. Because assignments are temporary, you can sample various hospitals or regions without a multi-year contract. Not sure if rural medicine is for you? Take a short locum stint and find out. Considering relocating to another state? Work a locum job there first. This career exploration without long-term commitment helps you discover what you truly enjoy before making a permanent move. It’s also an ideal solution if you’re between jobs or in transition, locums fills the gap on your own schedule.
- Meaningful Impact: Many locum tenens physicians find it deeply rewarding to serve communities in need. By taking assignments in underserved rural areas or busy hospitals stretched thin, you’re ensuring patients receive care that might otherwise be unavailable. Locums providers collectively care for millions of Americans each year, often in areas facing physician shortages. Knowing that your presence keeps a clinic open or an ER fully staffed can rekindle the purpose and passion in your practice. You’re truly making a difference wherever you go.
As you can see, locum tenens offers a lot – from personal flexibility to professional fulfillment. Now, how do you get started? The process involves a few important steps and logistical considerations, which we’ll outline below.
Getting Started with Locum Tenens: Key Steps and Logistics
Embarking on locum tenens work may feel daunting, but breaking it down into steps makes it manageable. The journey typically goes like this: decide your goals, partner with a staffing agency, line up an assignment, handle credentialing, and then go to work. Along the way, you’ll want to keep some logistics in mind (like licensing and travel). In this section, we’ll cover how to get started step-by-step, and what support is available to make the process easier.
Step 1: Partner with a Reputable Locum Tenens Agency
While it’s possible to find locum jobs on your own, most physicians start by connecting with a locum tenens staffing agency. A good agency (like Wapiti Medical Staffing) will act as your ally and guide from day one. Here’s why working with an agency is so helpful:
Access to Job Opportunities: Agencies build extensive relationships with healthcare facilities across the country, allowing them to efficiently align your specialty, interests, and schedule with suitable locum assignments. This gives you access to more diverse job opportunities than searching alone.
Credentialing and Licensing Support: Agencies streamline the credentialing and licensing process required for each new assignment. When working with Wapiti, for instance, you have access to credentialing specialists who manage applications, verify documentation, coordinate hospital privileges, and ensure you meet deadlines. This support simplifies what can otherwise be a complex and time-consuming process.
Travel and Housing Logistics: Another significant benefit of working with an agency is their handling of travel, accommodations, and malpractice insurance. Agencies like Wapiti coordinate and cover expenses related to transportation, lodging, and medical malpractice insurance, allowing you to concentrate fully on patient care without logistical distractions. Wapiti also provides comprehensive 24/7 support throughout your assignments.
Personalized Recruiter Assistance: Upon partnering with an agency, you will be assigned a dedicated recruiter who serves as your main point of contact. Your recruiter will understand your personal and professional objectives, proactively seek assignments aligned with your preferences, and advocate on your behalf should any issues arise. You benefit from ongoing guidance, support, and troubleshooting from a knowledgeable professional throughout your locum tenens journey.
Contract Negotiation and Management: Staffing agencies negotiate key terms of your locum tenens contract, including work schedules, hourly compensation, and additional benefits. With extensive experience reviewing contracts, recruiters ensure clarity, fairness, and transparency, preventing unforeseen issues. Your recruiter handles the details and ensures all expectations are clearly outlined, leaving no surprises at signing.
Selecting the Right Agency: Choosing a reputable agency specializing in your medical field and adhering to industry best practices is crucial. Wapiti Medical Staffing is a recognized member of the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO), demonstrating their commitment to ethical standards and quality service. Additionally, consider recommendations from colleagues and select an agency known for exceptional credentialing support, broad assignment availability, and excellent communication. Once you select your agency partner, you’re ready for the next steps in your locum tenens journey.
Step 2: Outline Your Preferences and Availability
Before you dive into specific job opportunities, take some time to outline your own goals and parameters for locum tenens work. This will help both you and your recruiter find the best matches. Consider the following:
Schedule and Workload: Decide if you want to do locums full-time or just occasionally. Are you looking for a long-term gig or a few weekend shifts here and there? Know your ideal workload (e.g., a week on/off, or one weekend per month, etc.). Being clear about how much you want to work, and when you’re available, will narrow the search to suitable assignments.
Location Preferences: Think about where you’d like (or not like) to practice. Are you open to traveling nationwide, or do you need to stay within one state or region? Make a list of states or cities that interest you, as well as any locations you’d rule out. If you’re open to rural areas, note that; if you prefer urban settings, note that too. Also check your state licensure status, you’ll need a medical license for any state you work in. If you aim to work in multiple states, consider applying for the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) to expedite new licenses, or focus on states where you’re already licensed. Setting geographic boundaries early helps target the right positions.
Practice Environment: Be honest about what clinical environments you’re comfortable with. Do you thrive in a small solo practice, or do you prefer a large hospital with a full support team? Are you okay working solo nights in a critical access hospital, or would you rather have other specialists on site? Defining your preferred practice setting (hospital vs. clinic, trauma center vs. outpatient only, etc.) will help your recruiter filter opportunities. Likewise, decide if you’re open to high-volume ER work, ICU coverage, obstetric deliveries, surgery assist, or other specific duties relevant to your specialty. Aligning assignments with your skill set and comfort level is key to a successful locum experience.
Assignment Length: How long do you envision your locum stints? Locum tenens offers everything from one-day vacation coverage to multi-month interim positions. If you know you can only get away for a week at a time, focus on short assignments. If you’re free for 3-6 months, you could take a longer placement. Let your recruiter know what assignment length and commitment you’re looking for (short-term, long-term, or no preference).
By clearly outlining these preferences (schedule, location, setting, duration), you empower your recruiter to find assignments that truly fit your needs. It also saves time by avoiding proposals that you’d turn down. Essentially, this step is about defining your ideal locum tenens scenario, so you and your agency can then make it a reality.
Tip: It can help to update your resume at this point as well. A concise, current resume that highlights your clinical experience will be needed when applying to assignments. Make sure it includes your licenses, board status, and any special skills (e.g. procedures or EMR proficiency) to give hospitals a clear picture of your qualifications.
Step 3: Get Credentialed and Licensed (Paperwork Phase)
Once you’ve partnered with an agency and clarified what you’re looking for, you’ll begin the credentialing and onboarding paperwork to become an active locum tenens provider. It may not be the most exciting part, but getting your documents in order early will pay off later (it means you can be approved and start assignments faster).
Here’s what to expect and prepare in this phase:
Agency Application: Most staffing agencies will have you fill out a provider profile or application. This is like a master packet of your professional credentials. You’ll provide your work history, education, licenses, certifications, references, malpractice history, etc. It’s a bit of work up front, but doing this thoroughly allows the agency to submit you for jobs quickly. Treat it like a one-time credentialing file that can be reused for multiple assignments.
Resume: Make sure your resume is up-to-date, accurate, and polished. List all relevant training and positions, and account for any gaps (facilities will ask). Emphasize the scope of your experience, for example, procedures you handle, volume of patients, types of settings (academic vs. community, etc.). A strong resume helps credentialing committees approve you without delay. Keep an electronic copy handy so you can send or update it anytime.
References: Identify a few professional references (typically other physicians or supervisors who have observed your work) and let them know someone may be contacting them. Hospitals often require reference checks as part of privileging you for an assignment. Having 2-3 references ready (with current contact info) will speed things along.
Licenses and Certifications: Gather electronic copies of your important documents. This includes your medical license(s), DEA certificate, board certification or eligibility letter, ACLS/BLS (and other life support certifications if applicable), immunization records (some require proof of flu shot, COVID vaccine, etc.), and any other certifications (like ATLS, PALS, etc. if relevant). Also have a copy of your NPI number. Keeping all these in a digital folder is extremely helpful, you can easily upload or email them as needed for credentialing applications. If you need a new state license for an assignment, start the application ASAP, since some states can take weeks or months. (Your agency can often guide or even pay for an additional state license if it’s needed for a job you accept.)
Hospital Credentialing: Every facility will have its own credentialing process once you accept an assignment. Expect to fill out privileging applications similar to what you’d do for any hospital job. The facility will verify your credentials and background. This can take a few weeks, so it’s important to return any paperwork promptly and be responsive to requests. Your agency’s credentialing team will usually assist here, often they will pre-populate forms with the info you gave in your profile and just ask you to review/sign. They’ll also track the process and keep it moving. (At Wapiti, the credentialing specialists will coordinate with the hospital and even help with things like insurance enrollment if needed, acting as your personal paperwork concierge.)
Remember, while this step involves a lot of documents, you’re not doing it alone, your agency’s support can make it much easier. Stay organized, respond quickly to emails or calls about paperwork, and soon you’ll have your credentialing clearance done. After that, you’re ready for the fun part: choosing your first assignment!
Step 4: Review Locum Tenens Job Opportunities and Accept an Assignment
With your basic onboarding done, your recruiter will start presenting you with locum tenens job opportunities that match your criteria from Step 2. This is where your locum tenens journey really takes shape, you get to pick where and when you’ll work. Here’s how to navigate this step:
Job Matches: Your recruiter will likely email or call you with potential assignments. For each opportunity, they’ll share details like the location (city/state and facility type), the start date and length of the assignment, the schedule (e.g. M-F clinic, 12-hour ER shifts, 7-on/7-off hospitalist, etc.), patient volume or scope (for example, average daily census or types of cases), and any special requirements (certain procedures, specific EMR experience, etc.). They will also discuss the compensation and what travel/lodging is provided. Take the time to review each opportunity carefully. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, for instance: What support staff is on site? What is the community like? Is there call duty? Your recruiter can get these answers for you if they’re not already provided.
Interviews or Calls: For many locum tenens positions, the hiring physician or medical director may want a brief phone interview with you before confirming you. This is usually informal, think of it as a two-way conversation to ensure it’s a good fit. They might ask about your experience and comfort with the setting, and you can ask about things like orientation, available resources, or workflow. Be honest and upbeat, if you have particular needs (e.g., you prefer not to do certain procedures), discuss them. This call is also your chance to make a positive impression and show you’re adaptable and reliable. Often, if both parties are satisfied after this conversation, you’ll be offered the assignment.
Selecting the Right Job: You may get multiple offers or options, so you’ll need to evaluate which assignment to accept. Weigh the factors that matter most to you: location, schedule, pay, the work itself, etc. For example, a job in a preferred location might pay a bit less, but offer a better lifestyle fit. Or a higher-paying job might require more weeks away from home than you’d like. Consider the trade-offs in light of your goals. Discuss any concerns with your recruiter, they can sometimes negotiate details (like adjusting the schedule or ensuring you have certain days off). Trust your gut as well. If something feels like a great opportunity, go for it! If you sense red flags (e.g., the facility has had trouble retaining docs or the job was turned down by others repeatedly), you can pass. The beauty of locums is you have a choice. Pick an assignment that excites you and meets your needs.
Internal Job Resources: Don’t forget to use your agency’s resources. You can often browse job listings on the agency’s website or job board. For instance, you can search Wapiti Medical Staffing’s locum tenens job listings at any time to see what’s available across the country. If you spot a position that interests you, mention it to your recruiter, they can provide more info and submit you for it. Being proactive can help you land a perfect gig.
Once you’ve decided on an assignment and the facility confirms they want you, congratulations – you’ve essentially “got the job”! Now there are just a few final logistics to handle before your first day.
Step 5: Finalize Your Contract and Prepare for Day One
After verbally accepting a locum tenens position, you will receive a contract (or agreement) from the agency to sign. This contract outlines all the terms of the assignment, so review it carefully. Key items to double-check in your locum contract include:
Dates and Duration: Make sure the start date, end date (or overall time frame), and any specific schedule (like rotation or number of shifts per month) are accurately listed as you discussed. If you negotiated any time off during the assignment, that should be written in.
Scope of Work: The contract should reflect your role and duties, e.g. clinic hours vs. hospital coverage, any on-call expectations, types of patients or procedures you’re responsible for. Ensure it matches what was described to you. If you won’t be doing a certain high-risk procedure (by prior agreement), that can be noted too.
Compensation and Expenses: Verify the pay rate (hourly, daily, or per shift) and how overtime or call-back is handled, if applicable. Also check that any travel reimbursement or provided housing is documented. Most locum contracts will state that the agency (or facility) covers travel, lodging, and malpractice insurance, these are standard but important to see in writing. Malpractice coverage details (usually occurrence-based policy) might be referenced. If you have questions about anything financial, ask your recruiter before signing.
Cancellation Terms: Look for any clause about cancellation, both your ability to cancel and the facility’s. Many contracts allow either party to cancel with notice (e.g., 30 days) without penalty, but some may have a fee if a commitment is broken last-minute. Understand what happens if, for instance, you need to leave early or if the facility cancels shifts.
In most cases, locum tenens contracts are straightforward and similar to each other. Once you’re satisfied everything is in order, sign the contract and return it to the agency. Now you are officially set to work the assignment.
Planning Logistics: The final step is making sure the travel and lodging are arranged, and you’re personally ready to go. Work with your agency’s travel coordinator to book flights (if needed) or clarify mileage reimbursement if you’re driving. They will also set up your housing. It might be a hotel, an apartment, or other provided housing near the facility. Confirm those details (address, check-in, etc.) a few days before you depart. Aim to arrive the day before your start date if possible. This gives you time to get familiar with the area and rest.
Orientation: On your first day, you’ll typically have some form of orientation at the facility. This may include getting your hospital ID badge, computer logins, and a tour of the department. Be prepared to learn new systems; for example, you might need to quickly get up to speed on an unfamiliar EHR or where supplies are located. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during orientation and the first few shifts. Introduce yourself to nurses, staff, and other doctors. Remember, relationships matter, even if you’re there temporarily. Being courteous, adaptable, and respectful goes a long way to building trust with the team.
During the Assignment: Once you start working, focus on doing what you do best – taking care of patients. Embrace the learning curve of a new environment, stay flexible with how the facility operates, and follow their protocols. Maintain good communication with staff. Also, keep your agency recruiter informed if anything significant comes up (for example, if your schedule isn’t what was promised, or if you’d like to extend the assignment). They are there as a support system throughout your locum tenure. And of course, keep track of your hours and submit any required timesheets or logs promptly to ensure you’re paid on time.
By the end of your first locum tenens assignment, you’ll have gained valuable experience and confidence. Many physicians find that after getting through the first assignment, they feel much more comfortable and even excited to line up the next one!
Step 6: Know the Independent Contractor Basics
One important aspect of working locum tenens is that most positions are structured as independent contractor roles. This means a few extra responsibilities on your part, which are worth planning for:
Taxes
As an independent contractor, you’ll typically be paid via Form 1099, meaning no income taxes will be withheld from your paychecks. Here’s what you need to know to manage taxes effectively:
- Quarterly Estimated Payments:
Most locum tenens physicians submit quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS to stay current and avoid penalties. - Professional Guidance Recommended:
Consult with a tax advisor who specializes in working with self-employed medical professionals—particularly if you plan to do locum tenens work frequently or over an extended period. - Tax Deductions:
A key benefit of independent contractor status is the ability to deduct certain expenses related to your work. Common deductible expenses include:- Licensing and credentialing fees
- Continuing Medical Education (CME) expenses
- Travel costs not reimbursed by Wapiti Medical or other organizations
- Record-Keeping:
Maintain thorough records of all unreimbursed expenses to streamline your tax filing process.
With thoughtful preparation and organized documentation, you can successfully manage your taxes as a locum tenens physician.
Benefits and Insurance
Unlike traditional employed roles, locum tenens assignments typically do not include standard employee benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans. Since you’re working as an independent contractor, consider the following carefully:
- Health Insurance:
Arrange coverage independently, such as through a spouse’s employer, the ACA marketplace, or private insurance options, especially if working locums long-term. - Disability and Life Insurance:
Evaluate your needs and consider obtaining disability and life insurance policies independently for financial protection. - Retirement Savings:
Plan for your financial future by setting up retirement accounts such as an IRA or solo 401(k). Without an HR department managing these details, you must proactively save and plan.
While these steps require initiative, many physicians find the flexibility and independence of locums worth the additional responsibility.
Professional Expenses
When working locum tenens, professional expenses typically work as follows:
- Malpractice Insurance:
Usually provided by Wapiti Medical or the hiring healthcare facility. Always verify malpractice coverage specifics for each assignment. - Licensing and DEA Fees:
Some assignments will reimburse the costs associated with obtaining new state licenses or DEA registration—always confirm reimbursement details beforehand. - Continuing Medical Education (CME):
Keep up-to-date with CME requirements. Some agencies, including Wapiti Medical, may offer resources or stipends for CME activities. If not covered, these expenses may be tax-deductible.
Ready to Explore Locum Tenens?
Working locum tenens as a physician can be a fulfilling and career-enhancing experience. You’ll enjoy greater control over your schedule, the chance to practice medicine on your own terms, and the ability to discover new places and practice settings. All the while, you’ll be making a positive impact by delivering care where it’s needed most.
If the locum lifestyle appeals to you, there’s no better time to take the next step. Start by finding an agency partner you trust and letting them know your goals. With Wapiti Medical Staffing, for example, you gain a dedicated team that will support you through credentialing, scheduling, and beyond, ensuring your transition to locum work is smooth. You can browse current locum tenens opportunities on our site and reach out to our recruiter team for personalized assistance.
Embarking on your first locum tenens assignment might feel like stepping into the unknown, but armed with the knowledge of how it all works, you’ll quickly find your footing. Many physicians report that locums rekindled their love of medicine, giving them flexibility, freedom, and a reminder of why they became doctors in the first place.