As the population ages and healthcare systems evolve, numerous facilities across the nation are facing escalating medical staffing challenges. This shortage has significantly increased the demand for skilled nurse practitioners (NPs), empowering them to play a crucial role in alleviating the strain. Forecasts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate a 45% growth in NP jobs from 2022-2032, far outpacing the average 3% for all other occupations. This surge in demand offers NPs not only the opportunity to fulfill their career objectives through locums positions but also to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape.
What is locum tenens?
Locum tenens is a Latin term meaning “to hold the place of.” Locum tenens NPs provide care to patients on a temporary basis. This duration can span a few days to several months, depending on the facility’s needs. Healthcare organizations hire locum tenens professionals to cover for vacations, manage seasonal influxes, reduce patient wait times, or fill a position until a permanent provider is onboarded. Locums positions are widespread, offering flexibility to work nationwide or close to home, providing an option for those seeking variety without the need to relocate.
Why is locum tenens right for me?
A wide range of facilities – whether urban, rural, government-operated, or privately- owned – utilize locums. Embracing locum tenens roles as an NP can offer you several advantages:
- Enhanced career independence and flexibility: Discover diverse roles and determine your own schedule. This level of autonomy is not only empowering but helps align your personal and professional development goals.
- Supplementary income opportunities: Whether you want to expedite student loan repayment or increase your primary income, locum tenens positions enable you to earn extra through flexible shifts, including moonlighting or weekend roles.
- Expanded career experience: Engaging with various practice settings broadens your skillset and provides exposure to different operational models. This enriches your resume and opens avenues for career progression.
- Travel and exploration: Locum tenens assignments offer the unique reward of travel, allowing you to explore new regions, experience different communities, or remain close to your loved ones if preferred.
Locum tenens roles are a pathway to career fulfillment. Contact us today to start your locums journey, and we’ll manage the logistics so you can concentrate on providing care.