15 Questions About Working for Locum Tenens USA

by Rob Berton | Aug 15, 2016 | Blog | 0 comments

1. What does locum tenens mean?

The term “locum tenens” is derived from Latin and means “holding one’s place”.

2. What does a locum tenens practitioner do?

A locum tenens practitioner is one who temporarily fills in for another provider during vacations, medical leaves, conferences or emergencies, or when a medical facility has another coverage need.

3. Does Locum Tenens USA only place practitioners for short term jobs?

No, we also get requests for permanent placement in various healthcare settings.

4. Where are these jobs usually located?

Our job listings are located all over the USA.

5. What types of practitioners do you find placement for?

We place practitioners in all different specialties.  The list includes physicians, physician assistants, anesthesiologists, nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, dentists and registered nurses.

6. How much time do I have to commit to as a practitioner?

Anyone can work as much or as little as they choose — full time, part time or overtime! All assignments vary, so we can cater to your needs and desires, depending on what you are looking for.

7. Why would a healthcare practitioner want to work locum tenens?

Locum tenens can be a permanent life choice or a temporary choice. It is a great way to supplement your current income. Some practitioners may be looking to make a permanent career change or move. Locum tenens creates an opportunity to work in different geographic locations or at different facilities, giving them the ability to assess their preferences before committing long–term to a career change or change of venue.

8. Is Locum Tenens available to only experienced practitioners?

Absolutely not!  We offer something to professionals with all levels of experience. It can be a great way to gain experience or help you transition to retirement from a permanent position to work whenever you want.

9. Do I have to provide my own medical malpractice insurance?

No, you do not! Depending on your specialty, medical malpractice insurance could be a very significant expense. Locum tenens practitioners find this one of the best benefits available to them.

9. How are Locum Tenens USA practitioners compensated?

All of our providers are treated as independent contractors.  You will get a 1099 tax form when it is time to file income tax returns.  Our practitioners are compensated at a competitive rate, many times earning even more than the average for the position they are working.

11. If I am traveling as locum tenens, are my expenses paid for?

Generally, yes, your airfare, lodging and car rental are usually paid for, depending on the assignment.  You will know what expenses are covered before agreeing to take the assignment.

12. Who takes care of the travel and lodging arrangements?  

We actually have a department that will help you with the logistics of your travel, i.e., booking flights, hotel rooms and rental cars.

12. How do I get licensure if I am not licensed in the state which I wish to seek employment?

We will assist you in obtaining licensure in other states.  Our company employs experts in licensing and credentialing who are there to assist you in obtaining your license. You provide the information and we do the rest of the leg work!

14. Do you have assignments to work locum tenens that do not involve travel?

Yes, we do!  Telemedicine is an evolving practice that is allowing people in rural areas to get medical care via technology.  We are always looking for providers to fill those gaps by utilizing telemedicine.  Connect to patients from other states or long distances from the comfort of your own home and be paid a very good wage.  No travel involved!

15. What is your application process like?

Simply leave your name, state of residence, licenses you have, and your specialty. A comment box is available for any specifics. We will follow up about the assignments and locum tenens services we have that are in your licensed areas. If you see something you are interested in, then contact a recruiter and they will assist you with the rest of the logistics.

State Licensure and Working Locum Tenens

by Rob Berton | Jul 28, 2016 | Blog | 0 comments

The meaning of locum tenens is to “hold a place”.  It does not matter what state or location that place is, as a locum physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner, you will need a license to practice in whatever state you choose to work.  Some states are easier to become licensed in than others, but that should not impact your decision on where you wish to search out work.  At Locum Tenens USA, we have many opportunities nationwide, so we strive to assist our personnel in obtaining the licensure they will require in order to pursue the jobs and locations they are most interested in.

All state licensing processes involve verification of credentialing, malpractice insurance documentation and controlled substance registration.  After the State Medical Boards have received this information, it still takes time to process it.  In order to protect the public from unprofessional, improper, unlawful or incompetent practice of medicine, each of the states and territories of the United States has formally adopted a Medical Practice Act, which defines the requirements for the practice of medicine within their borders and gives authority to a medical board to enforce the act’s provisions.

The Federation of State Medical Boards recognize the Medical Practice Acts regulatory guidelines used for each state to protect patients from poor medical practices and care.  Each state’s regulations are a bit different and there are some states can take up to six months or more to authorize licensing after receiving all of the necessary documentation.  This means a lot of follow up may be necessary.  Our professional licensing consultants are experienced in outlining the process and eliminating the common problems associated with state licensing, making the process faster and more convenient.

Although the excitement of traveling and experiencing healthcare in different settings is inviting, the thought of traversing the process of state licensing can be overwhelming, as physician scope of practice laws differ from state to state.  You became a licensed health care provider to help patients and communities have their healthcare needs met, and Locum Tenens USA wants to help you take that step to pursue your goal without the hassles of all of the paperwork involved.  So choose your location and let us assist you in pursuing the job of your dreams!