Are you a resident or fellow about to complete training? Not yet sure where you want to settle down? Waiting for a new job to start and looking to generate income and gain valuable experience in the interim? Locum tenens may be your answer. Consider these common myths and realities to find out more about this practice alternative.

MYTH: LOCUM TENENS INVOLVES TOO MUCH PAPERWORK.

Reality: It is true that, in most cases, you must secure a medical license for each state in which you practice, and you will likely need hospital privileges as well. These formalities need not be daunting if you give yourself enough lead time. Start by speaking with a recruiter at a reputable locum tenens agency. Companies have full-time staff members who will guide you every step of the way and even do some of the paperwork for you. Online credentials verification resources make the process easier than ever, but the sooner you get started the better. Some states (California, for example) tend not to rush when it comes to processing medical license applications. The bottom line is, yes, there is paperwork involved– but you will have support from your recruiter to get it all squared away.

MYTH: HAVING MOVED AROUND WILL LOOK BAD ON MY CV WHEN I SEARCH FOR A PERMANENT POSITION.

Reality: Many potential employers will consider the experience a plus. You will have seen a variety of ways to approach practice (from both a clinical and business standpoint), and you can bring fresh ideas to a new group or hospital. On your CV, simply state something like: "June, 2008–December, 2009: Locum Tenens (see attached for locations)." In an interview, speak positively about why you chose locum tenens after training and how you benefited from the experience. Be prepared to explain any gaps in practice longer than 30 days.

MYTH: I WILL NOT MAKE ENOUGH MONEY PRACTICING LOCUM TENENS.

Reality: Physicians often choose locum tenens for the flexible lifestyle it offers. So while you may not become ultra-wealthy practicing locum tenens, depending on the demand in your specialty, you may actually earn more than you would in a permanent position. Since pay rates are determined by specialty—not according to the number of years in practice—a physician just out of training will likely earn the same as one who has been practicing for 20 years. Factor in that travel expenses, housing, and malpractice insurance are all covered, and locum tenens take-home pay starts looking pretty attractive.

MYTH: I DO NOT KNOW HOW TO MANAGE THE FINANCIAL SIDE OF BEING SELF-EMPLOYED.

Reality: Locum tenens physicians are independent contractors and therefore responsible for their own taxes and benefits. Most agencies, however, offer resources to help doctors with details like how to handle taxes, find health insurance, and set up retirement plans.

MYTH: I MAY HAVE TO PRACTICE IN UNDESIRABLE LOCATIONS.

Reality: You are free to accept or decline any practice opportunity that is presented to you. Since many physicians who choose locum tenens are adventurous by nature, however, they often find that they enjoy engagements in New Mexico, New York, and New Zealand in equal measure. Good recruiters make it a top priority to place physicians in locations they will enjoy. Try to stay open to new opportunities and take advantage of everything each contract has to offer.

MYTH: I MIGHT NOT BE WELCOMED BY PATIENTS OR OTHER DOCTORS.

Reality: Almost without exception, locum tenens physicians are filling a genuine need wherever they practice. As such, they tend to be warmly embraced from Day One. But advance preparation is key. Know what to expect by learning as much as possible about the engagement before you go on location. If you find yourself in a situation that is not working out for any reason, let your recruiter know right away.

MYTH: AGENCIES ARE ONLY INTERESTED IN FILLING OPENINGS—I AM JUST ANOTHER DOCTOR TO THEM.

Reality: Naturally, companies need to find physicians for the positions they have open, but they focus first and foremost on creating an excellent fit. Recruiters depend on building long-term relationships with doctors. The best ones will work carefully and personally with you to make sure that every opportunity is a good match.

Now that you know some of the myths and realities about locum tenens, contact a NALTO agency recruiter who can answer the rest of your questions.

Views and opinions expressed herein are those of NALTO and not necessarily those of Advanstar Communications Inc. or LocumLife.

About the Author

Karen Childress is a Colorado-based freelance healthcare writer currently crafting a series of articles on behalf of NALTO.