As a recruiter, I often talk about locum tenens as a way to earn extra pay above and beyond a salaried position. But for physicians who want to reduce their hours or have greater autonomy over their schedule, locum tenens is an equally viable option.
A new American Medical Group Association report on physician retention highlights the challenges of striking a work-life balance. The survey shows that many physicians leave a group practice to move closer to family or to simply reduce their workload.
The report adds that women 39 and under are significantly more likely to leave a medical practice than their male counterparts.
In another recent survey of women in healthcare, only 9% of women rated themselves as “very satisfied” with their work-life balance. Respondents reported that at least once each week they had to make choices between work and family.
Becoming a locum tenens physician isn’t a cure-all for work-related stresses, but it does allow you to practice medicine without the worries of managing a practice or chasing reimbursement and other administrative hassles. In addition, consider these benefits:
- Locum tenens gives you choice and flexibility, allowing you to decide when, where and how often you work.
- Locum tenens jobs can be close to home or travel assignments. While some doctors associate locums work with relocation or travel, the reality is that many locum tenens providers only accept shifts in their immediate area.
- Locum work can ease a career transition. If you want to re-enter the workforce after an extended leave or if you are between full-time positions and don’t want to make a permanent commitment, locum tenens is a great option.
As a critical care nurse, recruiter and parent, I appreciate the work-life choices that impact your career decisions. If Locum Leaders can help with your unique situation, don’t hesitate to let us know.
