Locum tenens hospitalist work can be an incredible career move—more flexibility, stronger earning potential, and control over your schedule.
But it can also become frustrating and expensive if you step in without a clear strategy.

Before you talk to another recruiter or sign another contract, here are three foundational tips every physician should understand when considering locum tenens.

Tip #1: Licensing Is the Real Bottleneck—Not Jobs

Many physicians assume finding locum assignments is the hardest part. In reality, licensing and credentialing timelines are what delay or derail most opportunities.

Understanding:

• Multi-state licensing strategies (including IMLC)

• How credentialing timelines actually work

• How to keep licenses, DEA, and state requirements active

…can save you months of lost income and unnecessary stress.

Tip #2: Not All Contracts Are Created Equal

Two assignments may look similar on paper—but small details in a locums contract can dramatically affect your pay, workload, and quality of life.

Key areas physicians often overlook:

• Call expectations and coverage

• Travel, lodging, and per diem clauses

• Cancellation terms and malpractice coverage

Knowing what’s negotiable—and how to negotiate—puts you in control instead of relying on guesswork.

Tip #3: Locum Tenens Is a Business—Whether You Treat It Like One or Not

Once you step into locums, you’re essentially running a small business.

That means understanding:

• 1099 vs W-2 income

• Expense tracking and deductions

• Retirement planning without employer benefits

• Managing cash flow between assignments

Physicians who plan for this upfront experience less burnout and greater financial stability.

Want the Full Roadmap?

These three tips are just the beginning.

Locums Unlocked: A Doctor’s Guide to Thriving in Hospitalist Locum Tenens is a comprehensive, step-by-step online course created by Anne W. Burton, MD, designed to help physicians navigate locum tenens with clarity and confidence—from first assignment to long-term career planning.

Inside the course, you’ll learn:

• How to secure licenses faster

• How to negotiate smarter contracts

• How to manage taxes, retirement, and finances

• How to avoid burnout and design a sustainable career