It is widely known that the medical profession is one of the most stressful ones in existence. Long hours, having to see more patients in less time and increasing pressure from insurance and pharmaceutical companies are some of the factors that lead to physician stress. Doctors and other medical professionals must strive to maintained balanced lives and find creative ways to reduce their stress levels. Some of these strategies include participating in sports or other recreational activities, traveling, or enjoying hobbies. With mounting workplace demands, however, it can even become difficult for physicians to find time to enjoy the activities that help them relax. Some medical professionals are turning to locum tenens positions to help combat stress by allowing them to enjoy more free time, less pressure and more control over their lives.
What is Locum Tenens?
Locum, short for the Latin phrase locum tenens (literally "place-holder"), is a person who temporarily fulfills the duties of another. Locum tenens in this context refers to temporary employment for physicians, typically lasting until the position can be filled permanently. The medical industry has been using locum tenens for about three decades, but more and more physicians are taking advantage of its benefits.
How Does it Combat Stress?
Each and every locum tenens assignment is different, and as such, some will naturally be more stressful than others. The main way that locum tenens helps alleviate stress is that you are in control. You review assignments and choose which ones you want to apply to. Typically the demands on your time will be less than they would be with a full-time post. You also have the option to take extended blocks of time off, as well as to try out different types of practices and medical settings. Locum tenens positions can give you the chance to experience working in urban, rural, solo, group or hospital practices first-hand. Other options include the opportunity to travel all over the country or world and the opportunity to make more money, as salaries are generally higher.
Keep in Mind
Though the pay for locum tenens positions is typically better than it is for full-time medical positions, the benefits are usually somewhat lacking. The higher salary is usually to compensate for the fact that benefits are not offered. With that said, you will have to research to see how much of your earnings you'd have to set aside to cover any related costs.
One of the most important factors in a stress-free locum tenens experience is medical malpractice insurance. Sometimes, the locum tenens referral agency will provide and/or offer malpractice insurance. Sometimes, the employing organization may provide the insurance or you may have to negotiate with them. In other situations, you will be responsible for researching and buying your own insurance, in which case you'll need to factor in the cost and its impact on your bottom line. The important thing to remember is that you need to be properly insured and it is up to you to find out who will provide the insurance.
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