Locum tenens work offers physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants a unique career path with flexibility, diverse experiences, and competitive pay. But is it the right choice for you? While many providers thrive in locum roles, others prefer the stability of traditional employment.
This guide breaks down the key benefits and challenges of locum tenens work, helping you determine if it aligns with your career and lifestyle goals.
Pros of Locum Tenens Work
1. Higher Earning Potential
Locum tenens providers often earn 20-50% more than their permanently employed counterparts. Pay rates vary based on specialty, location, and experience, but hourly rates for locums tend to be significantly higher.
2. Flexible Scheduling & Work-Life Balance
One of the biggest advantages of locum tenens is the ability to:
- Choose your own schedule.
- Take extended time off between assignments.
- Avoid long-term commitments and burnout.
3. Travel & Housing Benefits
Most locum agencies provide travel reimbursements, housing stipends, and meal allowances, making it easier to explore new locations without additional expenses.
4. Exposure to Diverse Clinical Settings
Working in different hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems allows locum providers to:
- Gain broad clinical experience.
- Adapt to various medical environments.
- Improve clinical and communication skills.
5. Ideal for Career Transitions
Locum work is a great option for:
- New graduates looking to explore different specialties.
- Physicians nearing retirement who want to scale back hours.
- Mid-career professionals seeking a change without a long-term commitment.
Cons of Locum Tenens Work
1. Lack of Employer-Sponsored Benefits
As an independent contractor, locum tenens providers do not receive health insurance, paid time off, or retirement benefits. However, many offset this by:
- Purchasing private health insurance.
- Setting up self-funded retirement accounts (Solo 401k, SEP IRA, etc.).
- Negotiating higher pay to compensate for lost benefits.
2. Variable Income & Job Stability
Since this type of work is contract-based, income can fluctuate. To maintain financial stability:
- Keep an emergency fund for gaps between assignments.
- Work with multiple locum agencies for a steady flow of opportunities.
3. Credentialing & Licensing Challenges
Each assignment may require different:
- State licenses (especially for multi-state work).
- Hospital credentialing paperwork.
- Malpractice insurance considerations.
4. Adapting to New Workplaces
Every facility has its own policies, electronic medical records (EMR) systems, and workflows. Some providers find frequent transitions challenging. Strategies to adapt include:
- Being proactive in learning new systems quickly.
- Asking for orientation or training before starting.
5. Limited Long-Term Job Security
For those who value consistent colleagues, job stability, and career growth within an institution, locum tenens may not be the best long-term fit.
Is Locum Tenens Right for You?
Locum tenens work offers exceptional flexibility, high earning potential, and diverse experiences, but it’s not for everyone. If you prioritize stability, employer benefits, and long-term career growth in one setting, a permanent position might be a better fit.
For those seeking autonomy, adventure, and variety in their medical careers, locum tenens can be a fulfilling and financially rewarding option.
📩 Interested in this type of opportunity? Explore positions with Docs Who Care today!
