Locum tenens physicians who are new to the industry or contemplating expanding have many concerns about how to engage with a locum tenens staffing agency and what to expect on assignment. One of the first advantages of working with a locum tenens agency is that they give people access to a wide range of opportunities in their local communities, the nation, and the world. Agents may assign physicians n rural regions one month and city teaching hospitals the next. This provides ample opportunity for every physician.
If a doctor wants to practice in a specific area, such as rural medicine, an agency may be able to locate a permanent post that matches their interests and preferences. But if the same physician wants to explore numerous options or areas of services, they can work with more than one locum tenens agency to do so. Working with a locum tenens staffing agency not only provides financial benefits but also allows doctors to avoid unpaid idleness between contracts. In terms of practice environment and ethos, clinicians and doctors have several possibilities.
Can physicians work with more than one locum tenens agency?
The fact that locum tenens physicians work independently from their home institutions is often underlined throughout. As a result, you have a variety of agencies to pick from. In general, it is recommended that physicians connect with many agencies simultaneously so they can readily compare service quality.
Since working hours are also adaptable since you set your schedule, working with multiple agencies can be managed. You can choose the assignments you want to undertake from a list provided by the agency. Your employer cannot interfere with your right to freedom of movement and time management while on the job.
Initially, you may receive phone contact from a locum tenens staffing service recruiter to evaluate your interest in locum tenens work. The recruiter will ask about your medical history, skills, and career ambitions. The recruiter may contact you to explore future possibilities and assist you in setting up any more information (such as licensing, credentials, travel, etc.).
Often agencies appoint particular schedulers for physicians to ensure no one is stressed or overbooked. The scheduler works with the doctor to maximize efficiency. They also collaborate with the credentialing and licensing departments to ensure that on-call physicians always have access to the necessary documents before beginning their shifts.
Length of the locum tenens assignments when working with multiple agencies
The length of a project might range from a few hours to well over a year. Time spent on tasks can be classified in several ways:
- Weekend service is available 24/7.
- A week’s worth of vacation time is taken care of.
- Four to six weeks
- Indefinitely, in case anyone wants that option
Some assignments can be done more extended, while others can be done for two weeks. Physicians can choose which agency they would like to continue with long-term and which are not suitable for their long-term goals.
