Getting Started in Locum Tenens: Steps to Success
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Physicians
Locum Tenens
A Flexible and Rewarding Career Path for Physicians
Locum tenens allows physicians to take temporary assignments at hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities in need of coverage. This career path offers unmatched flexibility, competitive pay, and exposure to diverse clinical environments. Whether you're a recent graduate, between permanent jobs, or looking to add variety to your practice, locum work puts you in control of your career.
Many physicians turn to locum tenens to prevent burnout, take extended breaks, or ease into retirement while staying active in medicine. It also provides opportunities for professional growth by exposing physicians to different healthcare systems, patient populations, and clinical approaches. With many assignments covering travel, lodging, and malpractice insurance, locum work is both financially and professionally rewarding. While transitioning between jobs requires planning, once you understand the process, securing future assignments becomes much easier. This guide will walk you through the key steps to starting and thriving in locum tenens, from licensing and credentialing to choosing the right agency and securing the best assignments
Breaking Down the Locum Tenens Process
Understanding the locum tenens timeline can help you avoid unnecessary delays. Here’s what to expect at each stage:
Choosing a Locum Tenens Agency (1–2 weeks): Research agencies that specialize in your field. Compare contract terms, placement opportunities, and support services before committing.
Searching for Assignments (Varies; could be immediate or take a few months): Work with your agency to explore opportunities while waiting for licensing and credentialing approvals. Some specialties secure assignments quickly, while others take longer.
Obtaining State Licensure (3-6 months, 3–6 weeks with IMLC): If your assignment is in a state where you’re not licensed, begin the process early. The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) allows you to obtain multiple state licenses and is very popular among locum tenens providers. If you qualify, the IMLC can speed things up. To learn more about obtaining your Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, read our IMLC Physicians Guide.
Applying for DEA Registration (4–8 weeks): Ensure your DEA license is valid for the states where you’ll be working. New registrations take several weeks to process.
Completing Hospital Credentialing (6–13 weeks): Credentialing approvals must be completed before your start date, so submit paperwork early.
Confirming an Assignment Before Travel Arrangements (2–4 weeks before start date): Wait until your contract is finalized before booking travel and housing.
Reviewing Contract Terms Before Starting Work: Understand pay structures, cancellation policies, and malpractice coverage before signing.
Selecting a Reliable Locum Tenens Agency
A good agency simplifies the process by handling licensing, credentialing, travel arrangements, and malpractice insurance. However, not all agencies are equal. Some specialize in certain fields, while others provide a broader range of assignments. To find the right fit, read reviews, ask colleagues for recommendations, and compare contract terms. A reputable agency will advocate fair pay, transparent contracts, and ongoing support throughout your assignments.
Keeping Credentialing Documents Organized
Staying organized is one of the best ways to prevent credentialing delays. Before applying for assignments, create both digital and physical copies of essential documents, including:
- Updated CV
- State medical licenses
- Board certifications
- DEA registration
- Immunization records
- Malpractice history
- References
Securing State Licenses and DEA Registration
If you plan to work in multiple states, begin the licensing process early. Some states process applications quickly, while others take months. If eligible, the IMLC can streamline licensing across multiple states. Additionally, your DEA registration must match the state where you will prescribe controlled substances. If a new registration is required, allow four to six weeks for processing.
Evaluating and Selecting Assignments
Once licensing and credentialing are underway, you can begin searching for assignments. Consider these factors when evaluating opportunities:
- Compensation and benefits
- Patient load
- Facility supports and resources
- Location and work environment
Understanding Pay Structure and Contract Terms
Having a clear understanding of contract terms before signing ensures you are fully aware of your financial arrangements and obligations. You should confirm:
Pay schedule: Some locum tenens positions pay weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Understanding when and how you’ll be compensated prevents surprises.
Travel and lodging reimbursement: Some agencies pay for flights and accommodations upfront, while others offer stipends. Clarify whether you’ll need to submit receipts for reimbursement or if travel costs are covered directly.
Cancellation policies: Understand whether you’ll be compensated for canceled shifts or if there are penalties for withdrawing from an assignment early.
Preparing for Interviews and Orientation
Some facilities require a brief phone or video interview with a department head or medical director before finalizing an assignment. Even if it is not required, requesting an interview can help you assess workplace culture and expectations. Hospital orientation varies some facilities have structured onboarding, while others expect you to adapt quickly. If no formal orientation is provided, take the initiative to introduce yourself to key staff and clarify workflows before your first shift.
Arranging Travel and Housing
Once an assignment is confirmed, finalize travel and housing arrangements. Most agencies handle this for you, but some offer a stipend if you prefer to book accommodation independently. Booking travel and lodging at least two to four weeks before your start date ensures a smooth transition.
Setting Yourself Up for Success on Day One
Starting at a new facility can feel overwhelming, but preparation helps ease the transition. Before your first day:
- Review contract details, including pay rates and shift expectations.
- Familiarize yourself with the hospital’s EMR system.
- If possible, arrive a day early to settle in and meet key staff.
- Physicians who take a proactive approach to new assignments tend to have smoother experiences and greater success securing future locum opportunities.
Locum Tenens Can Be a Game-Changer for Your Career
Locum tenens offers a unique way to build a flexible, financially rewarding career while gaining diverse clinical experience. The initial onboarding process takes time, but once you’re credentialed and licensed in multiple states, securing assignments becomes much easier. For physicians looking to explore locum tenens, the key steps are choosing the right agency, keeping credentials organized, and being strategic about assignments. With the right preparation, locum tenens can be a fulfilling and financially advantageous career path.