Locum Tenens Hospitalist Jobs - Find Your Next Role

What is a Locum Tenens Hospitalist Job?

Locum tenens hospitalist jobs, also known as locums hospitalist jobs, are temporary physician positions that fill gaps in staffing at hospitals and healthcare facilities. Locum hospitalists are licensed and credentialed doctors to practice medicine, and they provide care to patients on a short-term basis, typically for a few days, weeks, or months. They are hired by hospitals and healthcare facilities to help manage patient care, particularly during times of staff shortages due to vacations, sick leaves, or seasonal fluctuations in patient volume.

The Demand for Locum Tenens Hospitalists

If you’ve considered working as a locum tenens hospitalist, know these positions are in demand. There are a variety of reasons why these positions are highly sought after, including:

• Physician shortages - The United States currently faces a shortage of physicians in many specialties, including hospital medicine. As a result, many hospitals and healthcare facilities are turning to locum tenens physicians to fill staffing gaps.
• Increasing demand for hospital medicine - Hospital medicine is a growing field, and the need for hospitalists is rising. As the population ages and the incidence of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease increases, there is a greater need for hospital-based medical care.
• Staffing challenges - Many hospitals and healthcare facilities need help recruiting and retaining permanent physicians due to factors such as geographic location, high patient volumes, and inadequate compensation packages. Locum tenens physicians can help fill these gaps and provide temporary staffing solutions.
• Short-term staffing needs - Hospitals and healthcare facilities may have short-term staffing needs due to factors like vacation coverage, maternity leave, or unexpected staff absences. Locum tenens physicians can provide a flexible staffing solution to meet these needs.

Overall, the demand for locum tenens hospitalist jobs is expected to remain strong in the coming years, making it an attractive option for physicians seeking temporary or flexible employment opportunities.

Locums Hospitalist Job Examples

If you’ve recently started your career working in a hospital or have been in the same role for a long period, you may not know what opportunities are out there. Locum tenens hospitalist jobs vary depending on the facility and hospital’s specific needs, so plenty of roles are available depending on your specialty and career goals. Here are a few examples of the types of locums hospitalist jobs available:

• Acute care hospitalist - These locums hospitalists work in hospitals and are responsible for managing the care of patients who require hospitalization due to acute illnesses or injuries. They collaborate with other medical professionals, such as nurses and specialists, to provide comprehensive care to patients.
• Long-term acute care hospitalist - These locums hospitalists work in long-term acute care facilities, specialized hospitals that provide care for patients with complex medical needs requiring extended hospital stays. They work with patients who require more intensive medical management than those in traditional acute care settings.
• Skilled nursing facility hospitalist - These locums hospitalists work in skilled nursing facilities, which are residential facilities that provide medical care and rehabilitation services for patients who require long-term care. They work with patients who have chronic conditions or disabilities that require ongoing medical management.
• Critical care hospitalist - These hospitalists work in intensive care units (ICUs) and are responsible for managing the care of critically ill patients who require intensive monitoring and treatment. They work closely with other medical professionals, such as respiratory therapists and pharmacists, to provide lifesaving interventions to patients.

How to Become a Locum Tenens Hospitalist

If you're interested in becoming a locum tenens hospitalist, it’s important to understand the requirements. Depending on your work experience and level of education, you may need to seek additional qualifications for a locums role. Here are steps you need to take to become a locum tenens hospitalist:

• Obtain the necessary education and training - You'll need to earn a medical degree and complete a residency program in internal medicine, family medicine, or another relevant specialty. Additionally, you'll need to become licensed to practice medicine in the state(s) where you plan to work.
• Gain clinical experience - Most locums hospitalist positions require at least two years of clinical experience in a hospital or other medical setting. You'll need experience managing patients with complex medical needs and be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
• Find a reputable staffing agency - To get started as a locum tenens hospitalist, you'll need to work with a reputable staffing agency specializing in placing temporary physicians. The agency will help match you with hospitals and healthcare facilities that need your services and will handle the logistics of your assignments, such as travel and lodging arrangements. At Caliber, we have qualified professionals ready and able to help you find the perfect locums role.
• Obtain necessary credentials - Before you can start working as a locum tenens hospitalist, you'll need to obtain the necessary credentials, such as medical licenses, DEA registration, and board certifications. The staffing agency can help you navigate this process.
• Be flexible - One of the key benefits of being a locum tenens hospitalist is the flexibility it offers. You'll need to be willing to travel and work in different healthcare settings, and you may need to adjust to different schedules and workloads from one assignment to the next.

With the help of a reputable staffing agency and the necessary education and training, you can embark on a rewarding career as a locum tenens hospitalist.

Benefits of Working with a Locum Tenens Agency

As mentioned, one of the critical steps in becoming a locum tenens hospitalist is finding a reputable agency. Caliber is a staffing solution that delivers easier, faster access to a nationwide pool of qualified physicians and advanced practice providers.

When you work with Caliber to find your next role, you’ll benefit from our dedicated team that provides support as you work to earn the right credentials and verifications and find roles that suit you. Not only do we help you find the right job, but we’ll also help you navigate travel and housing for your new position.

Here are some additional benefits of working with a locum tenens staffing agency:

• Access to a wide range of job opportunities - A staffing agency can connect you with a variety of locum tenens positions across different specialties and geographic locations.
• Streamlined job search process - Instead of searching for locum tenens opportunities on your own, Caliber can do the work for you. We’ll match you with job openings that fit your skills, experience, and preferences.
• Support throughout the job application process - Caliber can assist you with all aspects of the job application process, including submitting your application, negotiating your compensation and benefits package, and coordinating travel and lodging arrangements.
• Competitive compensation and benefits - Staffing agencies often negotiate higher hourly rates and provide travel and housing allowances to their locum tenens physicians. Additionally, they may offer benefits such as health insurance, malpractice insurance, and retirement plans.
• Assistance with licensing and credentialing - Caliber can help you navigate the often-complex process of obtaining state medical licenses and hospital credentials. This can save you time and frustration and ensure you're ready to start your new assignment as soon as possible.
• Continued professional development - Many staffing agencies offer continuing education opportunities to their locum tenens physicians. These can include online courses, conferences, and other learning opportunities to help you stay up-to-date with the latest medical techniques and technologies.
• Support during your assignment - Once you've accepted a locum tenens position, Heath Carousel provides ongoing support throughout your assignment. We can assist with any issues that arise, provide access to 24/7 support, and ensure that you have a positive experience.
• Flexibility - Working with a staffing agency provides flexibility in terms of your work schedule and the types of assignments you take on. This can allow you to tailor your work to your individual needs and preferences, whether that's taking on short-term assignments or working in a specific geographic location.

How to Find the Ideal Locums Hospitalist Job

With support from a qualified staffing agency, you’ll be well on your way to finding the ideal locums hospitalist job. While it does take some time and effort, it’s entirely possible to find a position that meets your professional and personal goals. Here are some steps you can take to find the ideal locums hospitalist job:

• Determine your goals - Before you start your search, it's important to understand your professional and personal goals clearly. This includes factors such as the type of healthcare setting you prefer, the geographic location you want to work in, the length of the assignment you're seeking, and your desired compensation and benefits.
• Research staffing agencies - There are many staffing agencies that specialize in locum tenens work, so it's important to do your research and find an agency that aligns with your goals and values. Caliber is a top 10 agency in the industry and provides comprehensive support and resources for our physicians.
• Submit your application - Once you've identified a staffing agency you're interested in working with, you can submit your application and provide your qualifications, availability, and preferences. Include a detailed resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications or licenses.
• Attend interviews - If your application is selected, you may be invited to attend an interview with the staffing agency. This is an opportunity to discuss your qualifications, experience, and goals, and to learn more about the agency and the types of assignments they offer.
• Review and accept assignments - Once a staffing agency has accepted you, you will be presented with potential assignments that match your goals and preferences. Take the time to review each position carefully, including the compensation and benefits package, the duration of the work, and the location and healthcare setting.
• Prepare for the assignment - Before starting a new assignment, it's important to ensure you have all the necessary licenses and credentials and any required vaccinations or health screenings. Caliber can ensure you’re ready and able to take on the assignment. In addition, you should familiarize yourself with the healthcare setting and the patient population and ensure that you clearly understand the responsibilities and expectations for the role.

By following these steps, you can find the ideal locum tenens hospitalist job that meets your professional and personal goals.

Discover the Benefits of Locum Tenens

Once you put in the work to find a qualified staffing agency and the right locum tenens role, you’ll enjoy the benefits of this type of work. Here are just a few advantages to locum tenens hospitalist roles:

• Flexibility in scheduling and location - As a locum tenens hospitalist, you have the freedom to choose when and where you work. You can accept assignments that fit your schedule and travel to different locations as you desire.
• Exposure to different practice settings - By working in various hospitals and healthcare facilities, you gain exposure to different practice settings, patient populations, and medical systems. This can broaden your knowledge and skills and make you a well-rounded physician.
• Opportunity to try out different locations before committing - If you're considering moving to a new city or state, working as a locum tenens hospitalist can allow you to try out different locations before committing to a permanent position.
• Competitive compensation - Locum tenens hospitalists are in high demand, so they often command higher hourly rates than permanent physicians. Additionally, many staffing agencies offer travel and housing allowances, which can further increase your compensation.
• Freedom from administrative tasks - As a locum tenens hospitalist, you're typically not responsible for administrative tasks such as billing and documentation. This allows you to focus solely on patient care during your assignment.
• Variety in patient care - By working in different hospitals and healthcare facilities, you'll encounter a wide range of patients with varying medical needs. This can provide a stimulating and rewarding experience for physicians who enjoy variety in their patient care.
• Work-life balance - Many locum tenens hospitalist assignments offer a better work-life balance than permanent positions. You can choose assignments that fit your desired schedule and workload, allowing you to prioritize your personal life and career.
• Professional growth - By working as a locum tenens hospitalist, you'll have the opportunity to learn from other physicians, gain exposure to new medical techniques and technologies, and develop new skills. This can help you grow professionally and become a better physician overall.

Is a Locum Tenens Hospitalist Role Right for Me?

Now that you have a complete understanding of locum tenens hospitalist roles and how to land them, it’s up to you to decide if this is the right career move. Locum tenens roles are challenging and rewarding, but they may not be for everyone. Take time to consider your priorities and long-term goals before committing to this type of work.

Here are key considerations to make before pursuing a locum tenens job:

• Experience and qualifications - Before pursuing locum tenens work, it's important to have a strong foundation in hospital medicine. Most locum tenens hospitalist jobs require physicians to have completed a residency in internal medicine, and many require additional certifications or training in hospital medicine.
• Licensure and credentialing - Depending on the state and facility where you plan to work, you may need to obtain a medical license and hospital privileges. The licensure and credentialing process can be time-consuming and complex, so it's important to start early and ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and qualifications.
• Flexibility - As a locum tenens hospitalist, you may be required to work in different geographic locations and healthcare settings. This requires flexibility and adaptability, as you will need to adapt to new environments and patient populations quickly.
• Travel requirements - Locum tenens work often involves travel, which can be a significant consideration. You will need to be comfortable with travel and have a plan in place to manage the logistics of transportation, lodging, and meals.
• Compensation and benefits - While locum tenens work can be financially rewarding, it's important to carefully consider the compensation and benefits package for each assignment. Factors such as hourly rate, travel and housing allowances, and malpractice insurance coverage can vary widely from one assignment to another.
• Work-life balance - Depending on the assignment, locum tenens work can involve long hours, overnight shifts, and weekends. It's important to carefully consider the work-life balance of each assignment and ensure that it aligns with your personal and professional priorities.
• Professional liability - As a locum tenens physician, you need to ensure you have appropriate professional liability coverage. Some staffing agencies provide malpractice insurance coverage, while others require physicians to provide their own coverage.
• Communication with the staffing agency - As you pursue locum tenens work, it's important to maintain open and transparent communication with your staffing agency. This includes discussing your availability, preferences, and concerns and ensuring that you clearly understand the terms and conditions of each assignment.

How Caliber Can Help You

As a top 15 locum tenens company, Caliber offers flexible physician staffing solutions. Our dedicated team understands the nuances and specialties within the healthcare industry, and we are here to help physicians and providers meet those unique needs.

When you work with Caliber, you’ll receive support at every step of your journey to find meaningful work. Not only do we help you find the perfect role, but we’ll provide support as you navigate through earning credentials and verifications and finding transportation and reliable housing.

Let us support you in your journey to work as a locum tenens physician.

FAQs

Why does locum tenens pay more?

There are many reasons locum tenens work is usually higher paying. Once such reason is that, as a locum tenens provider, you may be hired during a staffing shortage for a short period of time. Since the assignment is temporary in nature, the facility may be willing to pay more to ensure they attract qualified physicians.

What state pays the highest for a hospitalist?

According to data collected by Indeed, Seattle, Washington, is currently the highest-paying area for hospitalists.