Many physicians are concerned with choosing the right position after finishing residency. Medical school debt, practice area, and geographic location all factor in the decision. One of the top things young clinicians want is work-life balance. Locum tenens can be a rewarding way for new attendings to increase income, explore new locations, and keep your resume current before starting a fellowship. Here are some of the benefits of pursuing a career as a locums clinician early in your career and what to consider.
You can do this job for a long time or a short time.
One of the great things about locum tenens is the fact that you can do it for a long time, or a very short time. Some choose to just take just one contract before moving into a more permanent full-time role at a hospital or practice. Others enjoy the variety of locums and go on to sign successive placements and spend years as a locums clinician. Whatever route you choose, locums gives you the flexibility to earn an income in your field without having to commit to one employer or geographic area.
Financial freedom can happen a lot faster.
Over 70% of medical school graduates have student debt, averaging almost $230,600. You know as well as anyone that making a significant dent in that balance was difficult during residency. An attending salary will help, but what if you could find a way to work as a clinician while also earning more?
Generally speaking, locums gives you the opportunity to earn more money than you’d typically make in a hospital or clinic setting because clients are hiring in-demand specialists and practice areas. The premium for that demand is built into your compensation. Although each contract is unique, things like per diem, a housing stipend, and other incentives can also help you put more money toward paying down medical school debt.
Try before you buy.
Have you ever visited a new city and loved it so much you could see yourself living there? With locums, you can try new cities, regions, or even a different pace of life (more rural vs urban) before you commit to a full-time position. Why roll the dice and find out you actually don’t like the snow as much as you thought or don’t find the area as charming as your first did? With locums, you can try it out before you dive headfirst into relocating.
Prioritize work-life balance.
Starting with locums can set the tone for your entire career regarding work-life balance. Many full-time clinicians struggle to negotiate for better hours, more time off, or sabbaticals later in their career because they’ve “always been available” during their early years.Â
Locum tenens normalizes breaks. It allows you to schedule downtime between contracts to travel, rest, or spend time with family. You have the ability to prioritize your life outside of work.
Strengthen your skillset.
Working in varied environments exposes you to a wide range of cases, team dynamics, and protocols. These experiences allow you to build flexibility, resilience, and problem-solving skills in a way that a single job cannot. If you do decide to seek a more permanent employment situation, you’ll be able to speak of your adaptability and confidence to make you stand out as a candidate.
Partner with Jackson and Coker Locum Tenens.
When you choose locum tenens with Jackson and Coker, your recruiting consultant will take the time to get to know your interests to match you with healthcare organizations that align with your professional ambitions and personal priorities. We offer customized opportunities based on medical specialty and work preferences, including options for telehealth and government positions.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career and explore exciting new opportunities? We will help you find a role that aligns with what you are looking for, no matter what length of assignment you want. Your journey towards a more flexible and rewarding career starts here!
