Family medicine physician Hania Kahlon, MD, shares her tips for new residents wanting to explore locum tenens assignments.
It can be scary to do medicine in an untraditional way. As physicians, we spend most of our career with a schedule carved out for us. It’s the undergraduate degree, you take your MCAT, go to medical school for 4 years where you do your USMLE’s, and then residency for x years, then you find a nice, secure job that guarantees you x income for x years.
Going off this very predictable path and choosing to be a locum tenens physician can be scary. Don’t worry — that’s why I’m here to help! Interested in the locums life? You may want to keep reading!
Starting a career as a locum tenens physician can be both exciting and overwhelming. The flexibility and variety that come with temporary assignments offer unique opportunities, but navigating this new path requires some preparation.
For new locum tenens doctors, understanding the logistics — from handling contracts to managing finances — as well as developing adaptability to new clinical environments are key to thriving in this role. Whether you're just finishing residency or transitioning from a more traditional practice, following these five essential tips can help you succeed and make the most of your locum tenens experience.
Tip #1: Find an agency or someone to help you — especially if you’re new to this
If you're a resident or doctor interested in locum tenens positions but aren't aware of open opportunities, it's essential to connect with a locum tenens company or someone who can help you navigate the job market.
These agencies specialize in matching physicians with assignments that fit their skills, preferences, and career goals. Reaching out early can give you access to a wider range of options and provide valuable support in managing contracts, licensing, and logistics.
I personally got started by getting in touch with Weatherby and CompHealth because I found that they had a variety of listings on their website (which I found through a simple Google search).
Tip #2: Start on time
When should you start looking for your job?
For residents or new graduate doctors, it’s crucial to start looking for locum assignments at least six months before you plan to begin working.
This timeline allows ample time to explore different opportunities, secure necessary licensing and credentialing, and finalize contracts. By starting early, you’ll have the flexibility to find positions that align with your career goals and personal preferences, ensuring a smoother transition into your first locum tenens role.
How long does credentialing and licensing take?
The credentialing and licensing process for locum tenens doctors can vary, but typically it takes between 60 and 120 days. Licensing through traditional state medical boards can take several months, especially if you're applying for multiple state licenses. However, if you qualify and use the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), this timeline can be significantly shortened to just a few weeks.
Credentialing, which involves verifying your qualifications, employment history, and references, usually takes about 30 to 60 days. To avoid delays, it’s recommended to start both processes early, especially if you're targeting specific start dates for your assignments.
Ensure you’re ready: 5 ways to prepare for locum tenens jobs while still in residency
Tip #3: Look into the IMLC
What is the IMLC and why should I care?
The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) is a streamlined process that allows physicians to obtain medical licenses in multiple participating states more efficiently.
Basically, the IMLC simplifies the traditionally lengthy and complex state-by-state licensing process, making it easier to practice across state lines. This opens up a wider range of opportunities without the burden of having to apply for separate licenses in each state.
To qualify, physicians must meet specific criteria, such as holding a full, unrestricted license in a participating state and meeting certain education and training requirements. The IMLC can significantly reduce licensing time, allowing you to start new assignments faster.
Tip #4: Keep an open mind
Something that really helped me as a new locums doc was keeping an open mind. Being flexible and embracing challenges as they come is essential to thriving in diverse clinical environments.
Each assignment presents unique challenges, patient populations, and organizational cultures, requiring flexibility and adaptability. By approaching new settings with an open mindset, you will be able to integrate into your new role more easily.
Get all the details: Listen to the Locumstory podcast
Tip #5: Be okay with being uncomfortable
They always say you grow the most when you are out of your comfort zone, and being a locums physician has allowed me to be in that space.
For me, the uncomfortable part was starting a new job with no real plan beyond the three or six months that I planned on staying. For others, it may be moving between different clinical settings and working with new teams.
While discomfort can feel unsettling, it has challenged me to develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt quickly. Embracing this discomfort has allowed me to cultivate a strong sense of confidence in managing diverse and unpredictable environments. In the long run, I hope that these experiences will make me a more versatile and capable clinician.
Laying the groundwork for success
I’ve learned so much already through my new role as a locums doctor. It’s been a great experience so far and I’m glad I chose this as my first role as a physician out of residency. I have so much advice to offer, but starting with these tips will help you with the groundwork for success.
Securing your first locum tenens assignment is an exciting step toward building a flexible and rewarding medical career. By starting your search early, staying organized with credentialing and licensing, and seeking guidance from locum tenens companies or mentors, you’ll set yourself up for success.
Whether you're looking to explore different healthcare settings or gain more control over your schedule, careful planning and preparation are key. Ultimately, approaching the process with a clear strategy will help ensure that your first locum assignment meets your personal and professional goals, allowing you to enjoy the many benefits this career path offers.