by Rob Berton | May 18, 2017 | Blog, Credentialing, Locum Tenens |
Licensing and credentialing is important for locum tenens, who typically have to produce such documents before a position can be offered. Knowing how this works can make your time as a locum tenen productive and efficient.
How Licensing and Credentialing Work as a Locum Tenen
Since locum tenen positions often involve temporary employment in various medical facilities in different states, licensing and credentialing must be valid, current and easily verifiable. Depending on where you’ll be working, you may need to obtain new credentials, privileges, verifications or certificates. In some cases, you may need to reactivate lapsed state licenses. Here’s what you need to know to be prepared for your next locum tenen position.
Adhering to State License Procedures
Each state has a specific process for granting licenses to physicians. Most states have a complex series of requirements that include licensing boards and licensing statutes. Start by contacting the medical boards in states where you’ve applied for locum tenen positions to get a list of specific requirements.
The licensing process typically takes about five to six months in most states, as long as your documentation is sufficient. If you need to obtain a new license or reactivate an expired one, there will usually be a fee. The exact amount varies by state. Generally, licensing is a process that includes:
• Verification of education
• Malpractice documentation
• Controlled substance registration
• Interviews with medical board members
Providing Required Credentialing Documentation
Each hospital or medical facility has a process in place to verify the credentials and privileges of any physician applying for a locum tenen position. It’s largely a process that involves confirming everything that was stated on your application in reference to your capabilities, education and experience as a medical practitioner. The verification process often includes an in-depth interview with a credentialing committee and possibly individuals from the hospital’s board of directors and medical executive committee.
Often, each facility will reach out to previous employers where you had privileges to confirm that those privileges are still in good standing. They may also check any references you mentioned on your application or talk to staff you worked with previously. Documentation usually required for credentialing confirmation includes:
• Medical school diploma
• Proof of residencies and fellowships
• Board certifications
• Life support certifications
Accurate record-keeping is a must. Set up a system that allows you to easily access any credentialing or licensing information and the proof you’ll need to provide. Fully complete all necessary applications and keep copies of any training certificates you’ve obtained.
References:
1. State Medical Boards. Available at: “https://www.locumtenens.com/physician-resources/medical-state-board-licenses.aspx”. Accessed April 21, 2017.
2. Obtaining a Medical License. Available at: “https://www.ama-assn.org/education/obtaining-medical-license”. Accessed April 21, 2017.
3. Physician Credentialing and Privileging. Available at: “http://www.acmq.org/policies/policy21.pdf”. Accessed April 21, 2017.
by Rob Berton | May 9, 2017 | Blog, Opioid Crisis |
Overdose and deaths due to opioid use are rising at a fast rate in the United States. The medical profession is now taking steps to curb opioid usage by trying different pain management techniques and teaching doctors about the dangers of prescribing opioids.
How Doctors Are Managing the Opioid Epidemic
The Center for Disease Control has compiled statistics that show the death toll in 2016 for opioid and opiate-based medication use in the United States was over 30,000 people. This is 2.8 times more than the number of deaths due to opioid and opiate use in 2002. The alarming increase has changed the way the medical profession looks at opioids and how they are used. Here are three of the most significant changes the medical profession has made when prescribing opioids to reduce the number of people becoming addicted to opioid-based drugs.
New Pain Management Guidelines
The opioid epidemic affecting the country has caused the American College of Physicians to update and change its pain management guidelines. The new guidelines state that prescribing opioids for chronic pain should be done as a last resort when other pain management techniques have failed.
Doctors should first incorporate non-drug and non-invasive therapies into the pain management program of a patient. Therapies recommended to be done before using pain medications include things like chiropractic spinal manipulation techniques, acupuncture, massage and heat therapy.
New Prescription Guidelines
The Center for Disease Control has also issued new guidelines on how and when doctors should prescribe opioids for people with chronic pain. The guidelines promote the use of non-invasive and non-drug therapies as well as dictate dose rates and usage.
The Joint Commission that accredits thousands of health care centers, clinics and hospitals in the United States has also addressed the use of non-invasive and non-drug techniques to treat chronic pain. The Joint Commission now recommends that physicians use alternative treatments like chiropractic care and acupuncture for patients suffering from severe chronic pain.
Physician Training on Opioids
One of the most cited reasons for the opioid epidemic is that doctors prescribing the medications are often under-trained on the effects of the opioids on patients. For instance, doctors in Arizona do not have to be educated in opioid-based medications and the effects of their usage on patients. A recent survey of doctors showed that 72 percent who were surveyed had an insufficient knowledge of opioids and their effects. This lack of knowledge is about to change.
Public Health Law agencies across the country are undergoing reviews of the training doctors have received in opioid-based medications and are developing continuing education courses that the doctors will be required to take to maintain their license to practice. In time, as more and more doctors take the advanced training, the hope is that they will be more knowledgeable as to how they prescribe opioid-based medications to avoid future addictions and overdoses.
References:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/
[2] http://annals.org/aim/article/2603228/noninvasive-treatments-acute-subacute-chronic-low-back-pain-clinical-practice
[3] https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/prescribing/guideline.html
[4] http://www.jointcommission.org/assets/1/18/Clarification_of_the_Pain_Management__Standard.pdf
[5] https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/hookedrx/doctor-training-pain-management-opioids/
by Rob Berton | May 5, 2017 | Behavioral Health, Blog |
Hospitals around the country continue to pursue a comprehensive approach toward health care. This approach has led to hospitals integrating behavioral health across the industry.
The Integration of Behavioral Health Across the Health Care Industry
The health care industry has been pursuing a way to make health care more comprehensive. This has led to hospitals integrating behavioral health across the industry. The goal is to provide patients with the services that they need when they need them.
Behavioral Health Illness Issues
Integrating behavioral health into hospital health care systems is the next logical step. This is even more apparent considering that one out of every four Americans experiences some kind of behavioral health problem or substance use disorder. Unfortunately, many of these people enter care without ever having their underlying behavioral health issues addressed.
The Path to Integration
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how hospitals should modify their current health care delivery system to include behavioral health. It’s important for hospitals to remember that simply maintaining the status quo isn’t an option. The industry and environment are always changing. If hospitals aren’t striving to be ahead of the game, they get left behind.
Why Supporting Behavioral Health Is Essential
Behavioral health is a growing concern among people in the health care industry. In fact, studies show that depression is the third-most common reason that people visit a health care center. Diabetes and hypertension are the most common reasons. While huge steps are being taken to combat the first two issues, little has been done to combat behavioral health issues.
Behavioral health has a huge impact on people; it can help combat problems such as substance abuse, depression and anxiety. Combating depression is important because suicide is a major health concern.
On the Right Path
Many hospitals are already on the right path. In fact, nearly 70 percent of all HRSA-supported hospitals in the country offer some kind of mental health treatment and therapy. On top of this, nearly 40 percent of these hospitals also offer substance abuse counseling. An estimated 4,000 people work in hospitals and provide behavioral health therapy as well.
References:
[1] http://www.hpoe.org/Reports-HPOE/Behavioral%20health%20FINAL.pdf
[2] https://www.hrsa.gov/publichealth/clinical/BehavioralHealth/index.html
by Rob Berton | May 2, 2017 | Blog |
Working as a locum tenens professional provides many valuable experiences in different environments and locations. Keeping certain airline travel tips in mind can ease travel burdens for locum tenens.
Airline Travel Tips for Locum Tenens
Being a locum tenens professional means you’ll have many opportunities at various hospitals and medical facilities across the country and maybe even around the world. While traveling is often part of the experience of filling temporary vacancies, it can also present some unique challenges and potential problems. Be as prepared as possible for necessary airline travel by heeding these airline travel tips for locum tenens.
Take Advantage of Frequent Flyer Miles
Since you’ll likely need to travel by airplane on a frequent basis as a locum tenens professional, look into frequent flyer programs offered by the airlines that you regularly use. Some hospitals may pay for travel expenses or reimburse you for any out-of-pocket, travel-related expenses. Even so, you may still be able to accumulate miles that you can use for your other travel needs.
Pack Lightly for Short-term Assignments
Avoid hassles with luggage or the possibility of having to deal with lost bags by traveling as lightly as possible. Plan what you’ll need to wear ahead of time based on the climate and what’s accessible where you’ll be working. Most temporary physicians or health care workers prefer to keep clothing colors neutral, such as basic black, beige and white.
Get to the Airport Early
Attempt to get to the airport early to avoid unexpected delays with the screening and boarding process. Check on traffic conditions and plan other routes if possible because missing one flight could set off a domino effect and result in missing connecting flights. Also, keep the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in mind to avoid issues with TSA screening.
If you find yourself experiencing some unexpected travel delays as you fly from one assignment to another, keep your recruiting agent informed. Most hospitals and medical facilities will understand if there are unavoidable issues such as flight delays because of bad weather. However, if there’s an urgency to have an extra helping hand, they may be able to make alternate travel plans to get you there.
References:
[1] http://lifehacker.com/a-beginners-guide-to-airline-miles-1592887319
[2] http://blog.tortugabackpacks.com/packing-light-tips/
[3] https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/what-3-1-1-liquids-rule
[4] https://www.staffcare.com/4-travel-tips-for-next-locum-tenens-assignment/
by Rob Berton | Aug 15, 2016 | Blog |
- What does locum tenens mean?
The term “locum tenens” is derived from Latin and means “holding one’s place”.
- 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.
- Does Locum Tenens USA only place practitioners for short term jobs?
No, we also get requests for permanent placement in various healthcare settings.
- Where are these jobs usually located?
Our job listings are located all over the USA.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
by Rob Berton | Jul 28, 2016 | Blog |
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!
