Medical professionals consider locum tenens for different reasons. Some choose locum tenens to make more money or transition from full-time jobs, while others want to enjoy traveling and career growth.
Locum tenens programs offer flexible work schedules, travel opportunities, diverse working environments, and exciting career routes. This explains why they are becoming popular among seasoned medical professionals and fresh graduates.
However, healthcare providers considering locum tenens assignments should learn what it entails and how to prepare to have a rewarding experience. This article will highlight tips to help healthcare professionals have a successful locum tenens assignment.
Use the Right Locum Tenens Agency
The healthcare job market is dynamic; navigating it would take time and resources. New graduates and seasoned medical professionals can tap into the knowledge of a locum tenens agency. The agency links healthcare providers and medical facilities seeking competent professionals to fill temporary positions.
The leading agencies have many locum tenens assignments for residents and can recommend fulfilling opportunities that align with personal interests and career aspirations. The agency streamlines the job search process by handling the logistical aspects of job applications and providing the support needed to fill a specific position.
Prepare a Convincing Resume Before the Interview
Like other jobs, locum tenens positions require the medical professional to prepare a resume. This helps the locum tenens agency and the health facility looking to hire assess the qualifications and suitability for the position. So, healthcare professionals should update CVs and resumes to reflect their current qualifications and experience levels.
The resume highlights education, licensing, fellowships, residency, certifications, employment history, and locum tenens experience, if any. This information makes it easier for the hiring team to narrow their options before the interview. The locum tenens agency can help candidates prepare for interviews, usually conducted online, increasing the chances of securing a rewarding job.
Discuss Expectations and Preferences With the Recruiting Team
Recruiters usually communicate their needs and highlight the employee’s role in the job description. However, professionals looking for jobs rarely discuss their preferences, such as their favorite practice area, travel aspirations, and ideal working hours, with the recruiter. Being honest during the initial discussion helps the recruiter match the professional with a position likely to meet expectations.
Besides, the employee feels appreciated when assigned a job that aligns with their passion and lifestyle. Therefore, medical professionals who only want to work a maximum of 40 hours a week without overtime can find a position that meets those expectations if they express their preferences during recruitment.
Gather Paperwork and Equipment for the Job
The onboarding process after recruitment can be challenging if the workers do not carry the right documents. Digital copies of certificates, such as PALS, BLS, and ACLS, personal identification documents, and medical and vaccination cards, are crucial when reporting for locum tenens position. Employees also need equipment and tools such as stethoscopes, mobile devices, chargers, power banks, and portable hotspots, which can be handy in remote locations.
Create a Good Impression and Offer Quality Services
Research the new job location and dress appropriately to create the right impression. Also, be respectful and considerate of the patients and workers to meet their expectations.
Since the workplace might have a different culture, locum tenens professionals should learn from others and be active listeners. They should also understand policies and protocols to minimize the risk of conflicts with supervisors and colleagues.
These tips can help medical professionals find fulfilling locum tenens assignments. So, healthcare providers should find a good locum tenens agency, discuss their interests during recruitment, and strive to meet the expectations of the new position. This ensures the professional enjoys the new position and achieves personal and career objectives.