What are Locum Tenens providers?
The term “locum tenens” is Latin for “to hold the place of, to substitute for”. Locum tenens providers are healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and other medical practitioners, who temporarily fill staffing gaps at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
They step in during periods of staffing shortages, when permanent staff are on leave, or when facilities require additional support due to increased patient loads or to maintain services during the search for permanent hires. Travel nurses serve as a prime example, relocating across the country to fill temporary positions in healthcare facilities experiencing staffing shortfalls such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Locum tenens physicians can be found working in various settings, such as:
Why are locum tenens providers important to healthcare?
Locum tenens physicians are vital to healthcare for several reasons:
- Continuity of Care: They ensure that patient care remains uninterrupted, regardless of staffing challenges or transitions within a healthcare facility.
- Flexibility: Their temporary nature allows healthcare facilities to adjust staffing levels based on demand without the commitment to long-term employment contracts.
- Access to Care: By filling vacancies in underserved areas or in specialties with shortages, locum tenens providers help improve access to healthcare services.
- Expertise: These professionals often bring specialized skills and fresh perspectives to their temporary positions, enhancing the quality of care provided.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Hiring locum tenens can be more cost-effective for facilities needing immediate coverage or for short-term needs, avoiding the expenses associated with recruiting and onboarding permanent staff.