Locum tenens offers a flexible and rewarding career path for physicians at any stage of their journey, yet several myths surround this practice. Let’s debunk the top misconceptions.

Myth #1: Locum Tenens is Only for Retiring Physicians

While locum tenens is a popular option for seasoned physicians transitioning into semi-retirement, it offers valuable benefits at any career stage. Newly graduated physicians can explore diverse locations and practice settings before committing to a permanent role. Mid-career physicians often use locum tenens to increase income or develop new skills.

Myth #2: You Can’t Work Locums Full-Time

Many physicians successfully make locum tenens their full-time career, enjoying the flexibility and freedom it provides. Locums offers a better work-life balance, allowing more time for travel, family, and combating burnout.

Myth #3: You Have to Accept Every Opportunity

With locum tenens, you’re in control. You choose the assignments you take, how often you work, and which opportunities to decline.

Myth #4: Locum Assignments Are Only Short-Term

Locum tenens offers flexible assignment lengths to suit any lifestyle. Options range from short-term contracts lasting days or weeks to longer ones lasting months. Many assignments also offer recurring contracts, allowing physicians to return periodically, which benefits underserved communities.

Myth #5: Locum Tenens Work is Unstable

Locum tenens offers flexibility with the option to create a predictable schedule. Working with reputable agencies ensures consistent placements and reliable support

Myth #6: Locum Tenens Requires Constant Travel

Many assume locum tenens work always involves traveling, but that’s not the case. Physicians can take local assignments, allowing them to work temporarily or part-time in their own area or nearby. In fact, 51% of locum physicians work locally.

Myth #7: Locum Tenens Physicians Provide Lower-Quality Care

Studies show locum tenens physicians provide care on par with permanent staff. A  study found no difference in mortality rates between patients treated by locum and non-locum physicians. Additionally, research found patients treated by locums had shorter hospital stays, lower costs, and no increase in readmissions or mortality.