As a locum tenens clinician, you’re not just taking assignments, you’re shaping your own path, on your own terms. You have the unique opportunity to explore new regions, make a difference in various communities, and grow personally and professionally. Whether you’re a seasoned locum tenens professional or just starting out, Jackson and Coker will support you as you prepare for your next assignment, creating a smooth and fulfilling experience.
Get ahead of the next opportunity.
Taking a moment to prepare before your next locums role can transform your experience from good to great. Work with your consultant to ensure all necessary licenses and credentials are up to date and accessible. Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your assignment, such as the location, the facility, and the expectations laid out for you in the job description.
A thorough plan not only ensures peace of mind but allows you to fully experience the opportunity. Our dedicated travel team will provide you with a digital itinerary so you can stay on track throughout your journey. However, we also recommend you keep a physical copy just in case you lose access to the digital version. Here is some information to have written down:
- Recruiter’s contact information
- Hospital administrator’s contact information
- Flight information
- Rental car confirmation
- Lodging confirmation
- Important addresses
We encourage you to lean on us as you prepare. There are resources available, like our travel tip guide, for you to take advantage of, and our team of specialists are here to support you through each step.
With detailed planning and our unwavering support, you are empowered to make an impact, embrace flexibility, and elevate your professional journey.
Make meaningful connections early.
Locum tenens assignments can provide an excellent opportunity for you to create meaningful connections with new people. On your first day, take the initiative to meet everyone in your new workplace including peers, supervisors, and other medical colleagues. Taking the time to greet your new colleagues, whether it’s a smile, a handshake, or simply learning a few names, sets the tone for collaboration. In many settings, your presence isn’t just appreciated; it’s needed. Small actions can help shift team dynamics, strengthen morale, and remind you that you are making a difference.
At Jackson and Coker, we’re proud to partner with the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, advocating for a culture where mental health is protected. Supporting your team starts with supporting yourself.
Adopt a team-oriented attitude and strive to be a colleague who listens, a mentor who motivates, and a clinician who offers support. Investments in fostering strong connections will enrich your locum tenens experience, emphasizing the importance of empathy and compassion in your work.
Bring confidence, stay curious.
Making strong connections is only the beginning. To fully integrate into each new environment, you need to balance two things: the confidence to lead and the curiosity to learn. You bring clinical expertise and experience to the table, but each assignment is also a fresh opportunity to grow.
Show up with humility, professionalism, and a clear intention to contribute. Ask thoughtful questions. Observe how the team works before stepping in. Your ability to adapt quickly doesn’t mean knowing everything, it means being willing to understand and align with what is already in motion. This mindset earns respect fast and helps smooth transitions for the entire team.
Treat every assignment like a partnership. The facility depends on you to step in and support care delivery, and you rely on them to provide a clear structure. When both sides approach the work with mutual respect, strong communication, and shared goals, the assignment becomes more than filling a role. It becomes a meaningful part of your long-term career story.
Stay informed between assignments.
Locum tenens work offers unmatched flexibility, but the field is always evolving. Use time between assignments to stay current on licensing requirements, reimbursement policies, and care delivery trends. We regularly publish updates, physician stories, and practical insights on our Jackson and Coker blog to help you stay sharp and in the know.
Stay informed between assignments.
