Locum tenens jobs are notoriously difficult for some doctors, as they either dislike constantly being on the lookout for new roles or find it difficult for frequent changes in the working environment. Other common issues being the lack of a relationship with patients and feeling more like a stop gap than a medical professional. However, working as a Locum tenens can be easier than is immediately apparent, and certain precautions can be taken to ensure a simple working life that is varied, interesting and rewarding. Get to Know the Patient Most Locum tenens jobs rarely present the opportunity to get to know a patient on a personal level. Time spent with them is often fleeting and it is not uncommon for a patient and a locum to only come into contact once. However, the locum can make the best of the situation by getting to know the patient as well as possible through their records. While record keeping varies from hospital to hospital, many have adopted standard procedures or even utilize shared systems. This gives a forward thinking doctor the opportunity to get to know the patient without even meeting them. By knowing the style of records in advance, the doctor can quickly familiarize themselves with the history of the case and take other issues into consideration. If attending a facility for the first time, the agency should be able to advise which systems are in place for record keeping. Stay Flexible While doctors are relatively well-paid, most adjust their lifestyles to their income and can ill afford to be without employment for extended periods. While the challenge of adapting to new environments and meeting new people is something they enjoy, they constantly worry where the next role is coming from. However, roles are always available. Some hospitals only employ around 20f their staff on a full time basis, leaving numerous locum roles to be filled. A good locum will be registered with as many agencies as possible, even some of those out of state. While regulatory requirements may prevent frequent movement between states, some offer temporary licenses based on qualifications gained elsewhere. This allows an active doctor to remain aware of potential locum tenens jobs further afield than their standard working area. Know Your Limitations Successful locum placements require an open, honest relationship between the doctor and the employer. Many locums have already started to diversify into specializations and may be more capable in certain areas than others. Identifying limitations, either on technical or moral grounds, allows the hospital to plan its staffing correctly while also preventing the locum from being expected to undertake something with which they are uncomfortable. While many hospitals like staff to have as many skills as possible, they would rather employ a locum who is highly proficient in one area than one who is qualified but inexperienced in many. Locum tenens as a career choice is not as difficult as some doctors believe. While it is more ideally suited to certain individuals than others, it can be suitable option for most doctors should they choose to pursue it as long as they are aware of the fundamental requirements and prepare accordingly.