Locum tenens are in high demand today, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Many surgeons opt for these positions to achieve a better work-life balance and explore new opportunities. The risk of burnout decreases drastically when they move to locum tenens work. There is less stress, and the surgeon typically works fewer hours. These are only two of the many benefits that come with taking on this role. Why should every surgeon consider this type of work?
Work-Life Balance
One reason doctors may consider temporary surgeon roles is that they feel they lack a work-life balance. They may be called on to operate at a moment’s notice and must continue to see their existing patients. The administrative tasks that come with a permanent position can also be overwhelming. When they move to locum tenens work, they have more control over their schedules and can take time off when needed. The surgeon chooses which assignments they take, including the location, length of contract, and other essential details.
Competitive Pay
Surgeons often find that they earn more when they transition to locum tenens work. They make higher compensation while working fewer hours. A surgeon may use the additional funds to boost their income or take more time off without worrying about losing money. Surgeons often find they receive additional compensation above and beyond their wages. The healthcare organization requesting help may cover moving expenses, provide a housing stipend, and offer meal compensation.
Career Transition
Surgeons might find they want to make a change at work. They are tired of doing the same thing repeatedly and would like a fresh start. However, they don’t want to leave the field altogether. Taking locum tenens positions allows them to try different practice settings and positions to see what they enjoy. Transitioning won’t be so overwhelming because they will earn money as they explore other opportunities.
Less Bureaucracy
Many individuals in healthcare are ready to leave the field entirely because they are tired of the bureaucracy and administrative burdens that come with it. According to one study, doctors spend twice as much time completing administrative tasks as they do treating patients. That’s not why they entered the healthcare field. They want to be interacting with their patients rather than doing paperwork. When working as a locum tenens, a surgeon doesn’t need to worry bout these tasks. The hosting organization does the administrative work for them.
Skill Building
Locum tenens work in various locations and take on different cases. Doing so allows them to expand on their existing skills while refining existing ones. The work is engaging and interesting. They can share their knowledge with others in the industry while learning from them in return. A locum tenens may be in a facility for a week, a month, or longer. They must be flexible and able to adjust to different work environments. There is no opportunity to be bored when working as a locum tenens, as there is always somewhere new to be or something new to learn.
Surgeons seeking a change should consider locum tenens positions. These positions offer the flexibility to explore different opportunities while maintaining a better work-life balance. With many positions open today, a surgeon can be working somewhere new tomorrow, possibly in a place they’ve always wanted to visit or in a practice setting they’ve been wanting to try. They choose which assignments they take and can focus on those that will help them achieve their dream career.