Fact vs. Fiction — 4 Myths About Locum Tenens Debunked
Working locum tenens is a career choice that has gained significant traction among doctors, APPs, and other clinicians thanks to its flexibility, unbeatable experiences, and impressive compensation.
Locum tenens has grown in popularity over the years, yet myths and misconceptions still cloud its potential, keeping many from considering this rewarding and flexible career choice. So, in this article, we’ll clear the air by debunking four of the most common myths so you can decide if locum tenens is the right path for you.
Myth 1: Locum tenens is only for new or retired professionals
One of the most persistent myths about locum tenens is that it’s only suitable for people either starting their careers or easing into retirement. This misconception paints locum tenens as a transitional phase, but the reality is far more nuanced and exciting.
Locum tenens is a viable and rewarding option, no matter the stage of your career. Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking a change of pace, a mid-career provider looking for more flexibility, or someone who wants to explore different specialties or practice settings, you can tailor your locum tenens schedule to meet your specific goals.
For experienced physicians and APPs, locum tenens allows you to gain exposure to new clinical environments, avoid burnout, and achieve a better work-life balance. You can practice medicine on your own terms without the long-term commitments and administrative burdens of permanent positions.
Furthermore, locum tenens isn’t just a stepping stone or a final chapter — it’s a legitimate and enriching career path in its own right, offering variety, freedom, and the chance to grow and learn continually. So, if you value flexibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, locum tenens is a fantastic option.
Myth 2: It’s challenging to find consistent work
Some believe that locum tenens clinicians struggle to find consistent work, leading to gaps in employment and unreliable income. This myth suggests that locum tenens work is sporadic, with providers constantly looking for their next assignment, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
In reality, the demand for locum tenens is strong and continues to grow. Healthcare facilities nationwide and internationally rely on locum tenens professionals to fill temporary gaps, cover for staff on leave, and provide specialized care in underserved areas. This high demand translates into a wealth of opportunities for locum tenens clinicians and a steady flow of assignments.
Many locum tenens professionals build strong relationships with reputable agencies, like Integrity Locums, which can streamline finding and securing new assignments. We have an extensive network and can match you with assignments that align with your skills, preferences, and availability.
Locum tenens work can be as consistent as you want it to be. You can opt for short-term assignments with breaks between or longer engagements, providing a stable income. The key is clearly communicating your preferences and working with an agency that understands your goals.
Myth 3: Locum tenens professionals don’t receive benefits
Locum tenens work doesn’t come with benefits, right? Wrong! By choosing locum tenens, you won’t necessarily need to make sacrifices.
The compensation from locum tenens assignments can allow you to secure the benefits that fit your needs independently. For example, you might purchase your own health insurance plan or contribute to an individual retirement account (IRA) with the additional income you earn. The advantage here is choice — locum tenens providers can prioritize the most important benefits to them and their families.
Myth 4: You don’t earn as much per hour as permanent staff
A common myth is that locum tenens physicians don’t earn as much per hour as their permanently employed counterparts. This suggests that locum tenens work is less lucrative, and clinicians trade financial security for flexibility. That’s simply not the case. Locum tenens clinicians often earn higher hourly rates than permanent staff.
The often higher compensation of locum tenens work reflects the unique demands and responsibilities of these roles. Locum tenens professionals are often called upon to fill urgent staffing needs, cover for specialized positions, or work in underserved areas, all of which command premium pay rates. Additionally, locum tenens providers typically receive stipends for travel, housing, and other expenses, which can further increase their overall earnings.
When you factor in these additional stipends and the potential for tax advantages, locum tenens can be a financially rewarding career.
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