As a new (or tenured) physician, it’s understandable to think that the best option is to stay rooted in a single medical facility or clinic. Most medical professionals grow their careers in the same place, building respect and experience through the years. However, just because it’s the most popular way to live out a career as a medical professional doesn’t mean it’s ideal for your situation.
Consider the state of locum tenens and how more and more physicians are making the switch. So what makes locum tenens jobs such a popular choice among physicians? Let’s find out.
The pay
One of the first things to consider when it comes to locum tenens is the overall pay. Some people will swear by locum tenens due to how it helped them pay off student loans quicker than usual. However, there are locum tenens assignments that pay similarly to the regular job. It all depends on the assignment you choose, as it determines the location. Typically, the farther away the assignment, the more you’re paid. Many people will tackle a job as a locum tenens physician with the idea of earning as much as possible at the beginning. It’s a challenge, but one that many new medical professionals are more than happy to tackle. After all, most people would want to prove themselves in a competitive environment.
The changes in lifestyle
Everyone knows that getting a job as a physician means sacrificing most of your time to build your career. It’s understandable, and many individuals brace themselves for the lifestyle changes moving forward. That said, locum tenens switch things up in a different way. While it’s still a job that takes plenty of effort and commitment, you don’t spend as much time in the facility as a locum tenens physician. One reason why locum tenens is so popular is that you have more control over your time.
But again, the changes in lifestyle involve the location. Locum tenens physicians will have to be ready to move out for the next assignment and potentially move into a remote location to deal with a project. It’s a different beast compared to the usual fare for a physician, and they have their fair share of pros and cons. That said, it’s still a net positive for most people, which is why a career in locum tenens is so popular.
The experience
The locum tenens experience is vastly different from the more conventional career in medicine and healthcare. One reason why it’s so popular these days is that the career is a breath of fresh air compared to the more conventional options. It allows you to travel, and you never stay in one area for too long—unless you go for long-term assignments. Overall, the experience is considered superior, but there are still some cons compared to a traditional career.
Conclusion
Generally, there are plenty of reasons why anyone would want to choose a locum tenens job over the standard fare. While it’s not a decision to be made lightly, locum tenens has much to offer.
