Part-time Anesthesiologist and CRNA Career Outlook

A recent study indicates that within the next five years, around 30 percent of anesthesiologists and CRNAs will be eligible for retirement. Unfortunately, this comes at a time when our nation continues to experience a physician shortage as older providers retire, and younger generations are opting out of medical school. Luckily, for those who are already practicing anesthesiology, the job outlook for part-time anesthesiologists and CRNAs is bright.

What's on the Horizon for Anesthesiologists and CRNAs?

New Opportunities

Currently, there is a steady demand for anesthesiologists and CRNAs, but as older providers start to retire, there will be even more opportunities to choose from. The shortage of anesthesiology providers will impact facilities nationwide, meaning current providers will have more options for assignment location and facility type -- rural or urban settings, government or non-government jobs, etc.

Work-Life Balance

The upcoming provider shortage may negatively impact providers' work-life balance for full-time anesthesiology providers. With fewer providers, those in full-time roles may have to see more patients and work longer hours. However, working anesthesiology as a locum tenens provider ensures freedom and flexibility with a great work-life balance. These providers can choose to work as often or as little as they would like. Locum tenens work can be anywhere from a shift or two to a couple of weeks, to months. Full-time positions do not have this kind of flexibility. Therefore, those that desire to make a good living and have personal time outside of the office should consider working anesthesiology jobs as a locum tenens provider.

Higher Pay than Usual

One of the advantages locum tenens providers refer to the most is the opportunity to earn higher pay across many specialties. With 30 percent of anesthesiology providers expected to retire in the next five years, facilities are likely going to pay more to get qualified providers in the door.

When to start a locum tenens assignment

The best time to start a locum tenens anesthesiologist or CRNA assignment is now. There is already a high demand for anesthesiologists and CRNAs, but the predictions show the demand will increase within the next five years. If you want to stand out from other candidates competing for the same jobs in the future, it's best to start building your locum tenens resume now. The more locum tenens experience you have, the more facilities will consider hiring you. Having locum tenens experience shows that you are adaptable, flexible, and qualified to work in new facilities with different policies and procedures. Ready to set yourself ahead of the competition? Reach out to a recruiter today to find your next anesthesiology assignment.