Locum tenens positions offer many benefits for anesthesia providers, including flexibility, mobility, competitive pay, and career advancement. Healthcare facilities seeking to strengthen their anesthesia staff often rely on hiring locum CRNAs or anesthesiologists for short-term or ongoing flexible assignments.
If you are new to locum tenens work, here are four things you should know as you start your search.
1. The more open you are, the more opportunities you have.
Locum tenens jobs vary widely in terms of location, schedule, and responsibilities. One facility may need a CRNA to fill in for three months while its regular provider is on medical leave, while another is looking for an anesthesiologist to work three days a week for the foreseeable future.
Decide how open you are to different scenarios. Are you willing to relocate out of state? Do you prefer a short-term or long-term assignment, or will you consider both? What type of work environment is ideal for you? Outline your must-have parameters, then try to remain receptive to all other positions. This adaptability will give you access to a wider range of opportunities.
2. You need a recruiter you can trust.
Choose a staffing agency you can depend on to support you throughout the application and placement process. The relationship you have with your recruiter will be crucial to your success. Do they have a clear sense of your expertise, preferences, and expectations to find a position that is a good fit for you? Do you have confidence that they will be proactive, responsible, and responsive? Partner with a recruiter you have a good rapport with and who you can trust to handle critical tasks like credentialing and facilitating your onboarding.
3. Locum compensation is attractive.
Demand is high for locum tenens providers, and so is your earning potential as a locum CRNA or anesthesiologist. Don’t be afraid to ask for the rate you think you deserve. Hourly rates fluctuate depending on the facility and contract, but Radar Healthcare has a reputation for securing the best rates for our providers. On average, locum CRNAs earn $125-$130 an hour, and locum anesthesiologists earn $200-$225 an hour, plus travel and lodging expenses.
4. Locum assignments help you broaden your experience.
A locum tenens position allows you to develop new professional skills, work in different specialty areas, and build relationships with colleagues and potential mentors. Since many assignments are for a fixed period of time, they offer a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to explore your interests and advance your career.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of locum tenens? Get in touch with our team.