Thousands of people graduate from medical school each year in America. Many people choose to become doctors because of a love of science and medicine and an ingrained desire to help others. They want to make a difference in people’s lives, and there are few better ways to do so than to foster their health. Graduating from medical school marks the beginning of seeing their passions come to fruition.
Of course, once they enter into practice, many doctors find that the medical field isn’t exactly what they’d hoped. Some end up working long hours with patients only to have to spend even more time performing administrative tasks. Others find that they’re not able to devote enough time to each patient; instead, they’re pushed to see as many patients as possible rather than prioritizing quality above quantity. Either way, quite a few don’t have the flexibility they’d like. Becoming part of a network of locum tenens doctors can change all that. Locum tenens work offers exceptional flexibility from several angles.
Freedom in Scheduling
For one, locum tenens work gives doctors the freedom in their scheduling. They can choose assignments that offer the schedules they want to work whether they’re looking for full-time or part-time positions. They can also choose the lengths of their assignments and how often they accept work. Locum tenens providers can accept back-to-back assignments that last a few days or weeks each or take on long-term assignments and take time off between them. They can even alternate if they want.
Workplace Versatility
Locum tenens providers also have versatility in the types of medical facilities they work in. They can choose clinics in rural areas, hospitals in urban settings, private practices in suburban communities, or any other type of facility. They can accept assignments in settings they’re most comfortable with or try a variety of healthcare facilities to gain more extensive experience. Some test different types of medical facilities to help them choose which one is the best fit for them before transitioning to permanent positions. Others do so when they feel they’re ready for a change of pace.
Opportunities to Work in Different Places
Another way locum tenens work gives doctors flexibility is by allowing them to choose where they want to work. They can travel the country taking on different assignments or stay fairly close to a specific area. They can work in various types of communities with different patient demographics. They can go where they’re needed most and work in underserved areas or simply fill temporary roles to allow their fellow physicians to take time off from work. Some even venture abroad for assignments in other countries.
Financial Flexibility
Additionally, locum tenens work gives doctors financial flexibility. Temporary assignments can be their sole means of income or part of a more diverse employment arrangement. Physicians can use locum tenens work for occasional extra income or to pay off student loans. They can also accept assignments to help supplement their retirement income. Whether they need extra money for a specific purpose or simply want to get ahead, they can use locum tenens assignments to reach their goals.
Finding Ultimate Flexibility With Locum Tenens Work
An ever-growing number of doctors are choosing locum tenens work over other options. This career path can give them far more freedom than traditional positions. It offers flexibility in when and where they work, who they work with, and how much money they make among other benefits. For doctors who are looking for more freedom and versatility, becoming a locum tenens provider may be the answer.