
Author
MDstaffers
Starting a career after residency or fellowship can be both exciting and daunting. While many new physicians may assume that jumping into a permanent role is the next logical step, locum tenens offers an appealing alternative that provides flexibility, variety, and valuable experience.
Here are several reasons why locum tenens is an excellent option for physicians just completing their training.
1. Explore Different Practice Settings Before Committing to a Full-Time Role
Working locum tenens allows you to experience a range of healthcare environments—from urban teaching hospitals to rural clinics—without committing to one location. This diversity provides exposure to different practice styles, patient populations, and team dynamics, helping you gain insights into what type of setting best suits your career goals and lifestyle preferences.
2. Gain Experience in Multiple Specialties and Hone Your Skills
For physicians coming out of residency or fellowship, locum tenens roles offer an ideal way to sharpen clinical skills and expand experience across specialties. Depending on your field, you may have opportunities to assist in a variety of cases, treat diverse patient needs, or collaborate with physicians in different specialties. This broad exposure builds confidence and clinical expertise, allowing you to grow as a well-rounded physician.
3. Earn Competitive Pay Right Out of Training
One major advantage of locum tenens work is the potential for competitive compensation, which can sometimes exceed salaries in permanent roles. Locum tenens assignments allow new physicians to start earning quickly, with opportunities to negotiate rates and choose assignments that align with financial goals. Many recent graduates find that locum tenens work is a great way to begin paying down student loans or saving for future investments.
4. Maintain a Flexible Schedule for Work-Life Balance
Locum tenens provides flexibility not typically available in permanent roles, which can be especially valuable at the start of a career. With locum work, you can take breaks between assignments to rest, travel, or spend time with family. For physicians coming out of demanding residency or fellowship programs, this flexibility can be a breath of fresh air, allowing for more personal time while still pursuing a fulfilling career.
5. Expand Your Professional Network Across Regions and Specialties
As a locum tenens physician, you’ll meet colleagues across the country, from hospital administrators to specialists in various fields. Each assignment offers new connections and learning opportunities, expanding your professional network. Building relationships in different locations and specialties can lead to valuable career opportunities, mentorships, and referrals down the line.
6. Try Out Different Locations Without a Long-Term Commitment
Many new physicians may not yet be certain where they want to establish their careers long-term. Locum tenens assignments offer a chance to try out different regions and cities without committing to a permanent position. Whether you’re interested in rural settings, coastal cities, or suburban communities, locum work allows you to explore each option firsthand before making a long-term decision.
7. Develop Independence and Adaptability Early in Your Career
Working locum tenens fosters a unique skill set, encouraging adaptability, self-reliance, and strong communication. As a locum physician, you’ll need to adapt quickly to new facilities, EMR systems, and protocols. This experience builds confidence and versatility, which are invaluable traits as you navigate your career. Locum work can help new physicians develop resilience and problem-solving skills that benefit any career path.
Conclusion:
For physicians coming out of residency or fellowship, locum tenens offers a unique and flexible entry point into a medical career. From gaining varied clinical experience to earning competitive pay and building a professional network, locum work allows new physicians to approach their careers with a sense of freedom and exploration. If you’re considering options post-training, keeping an open mind about locum tenens may just lead to a fulfilling and dynamic start to your professional journey.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is the responsibility of the prescriber to understand and comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding their DEA registration. MDstaffers does not offer or provide legal advice and recommends directing any questions to the DEA or consulting your licensed legal advisor.