Locums PA and NP jobs can pay up to $17 more an hour in comparison to full-time, permanent jobs. Some locums agencies pay per hour on a contract basis using a 1099, while other agencies — like CompHealth and Weatherby Healthcare — hire NPs and PAs as employees with a W-2, meaning they get benefits like 401k contributions and health insurance. \n\n Plus, most agencies cover the costs of travel, lodging, medical malpractice insurance, credentialing and licensing, and more.

Locum tenens lets you decide where, when, and how you'd like to work. Many PAs and NPs who work locums do so because of the increased flexibility it provides them. Providers are able to schedule time off when they need it and tailor their working hours to what works best with their lifestyle, allowing them time to pursue other personal interests and hobbies outside of medicine. Many PA/NPs also leverage locums to travel and see new places, individually or with their families.

By leveraging short-term locums assignments, you can test out new practice settings and expand your skill set. Whether you're looking to do locum tenens full time or on the side, there are a variety of different opportunities available. Traveling and working in new environments is also a great way to meet new people and make personal and professional connections.