Locum tenens work has grown substantially in the past ten years

Locum Tenens work is an option that often goes unconsidered by many residents and doctors in training. However, here at Preferred Solutions, we feel that locum tenens work can have an enormous impact on the a residents future career plans. Locum jobs are becoming more and more popular, and the rising trend of locum jobs is not expected to level off any time soon.

According to a 2014 survey conducted by Staff Care, the number of locum tenens workers across the country rose from 26,000 in 2002 to around 40,000 in 2014. Additionally, the number of healthcare facilities that utilize locum workers rose from 74 percent in 2012 to 90 percent in 2014. Based on these trends, it is easy to see that the need for locum tenens workers is growing nationwide, and will continue to grow until needs are met.

The data in the survey also shows that while locum tenens workers are typically full fledged physicians, a growing number of residents and fellows are choosing to pursue locum tenens work in lieu of a traditional hospital job. In 2013, 14 percent of those respondents surveyed said they first worked a locum tenens job right out of residency, and in 2014, 16 percent responded with the same answer. While a 2 percent growth doesn’t seem all that impressive, this number is predicted to grow year by year. This is due to the fact that locum work is becoming an increasingly popular option for fellows and residents, because it allows them the opportunity to test out different healthcare facilities before committing to a permanent location. Below, we have listed a few more benefits associated with locum tenens work:

• Flexible schedule
• Experience in many different areas of medicine
• Travel opportunities
• Fully covered malpractice insurance
• Assistance in medical licensing
• Excellent compensation

With an increasing need for locum workers across the country, now is the perfect time for residents and fellows to consider taking a locum tenens position before committing to a permanent placement at a healthcare facility. A locum tenens position allows a physician to have more direct control over their career, and is also a great way to see the country and experience different working environments. Contact us today at Preferred solutions, and let us help you find the locum tenens position that is right for you.