Healthcare professionals

What is Locum Tenens?

Discover flexible healthcare opportunities that put you in control of your career, schedule, and income.

Understanding Locum Tenens

The Meaning Behind the Name

"Locum tenens" is Latin for "to hold the place of" or "to substitute for." In practice, it means providing temporary medical staffing to healthcare facilities when they need coverage.

Locum tenens professionals work at healthcare facilities on a temporary basis to fill staffing gaps, cover vacations, or occupy vacant positions until permanent providers can be found.

Today, locum tenens means providing care to millions of patients throughout the United States in light of growing physician shortages.

Healthcare team

The Growing Need for Locum Professionals

100,000+
Physician Shortage

Expected shortage of doctors by 2030 according to the Association of American Medical Colleges

85%
Facilities Use Locums

of healthcare facilities rely on locum tenens professionals to meet patient care needs

1970s
Industry Origins

Started with rural health clinics, now serves facilities nationwide

Why Choose Locum Tenens?

Flexible Schedule

Choose assignments that fit your specific scheduling needs and work when you want to.

Higher Compensation

Earn competitive rates, often higher than permanent positions, with additional compensation for overtime and on-call work.

Travel Opportunities

Work across the country or close to home, with prepaid travel and housing expenses covered.

Career Growth

Expand your skill set, gain diverse experience, and encounter new challenges to enhance your CV.

Is Locum Tenens Right for You?

If any of these statements apply to you, locum tenens may be the perfect fit for your career:

I prefer a flexible work schedule and want control over my time

I have time to pick up additional assignments for extra income

I want to pay down medical school debt quickly with higher rates

I'm interested in gaining well-rounded clinical experience

I want to travel and see new parts of the United States

I'm seeking better work-life balance to avoid burnout

How Locum Tenens Works

1

Apply & Get Matched

Register with Locum Square, complete your profile, and our team will match you with opportunities that fit your specialty and preferences.

2

Credentialing & Setup

We handle licensing, credentialing, malpractice insurance, and arrange all travel and housing logistics for your assignment.

3

Start Your Assignment

Begin your locum assignment with full support from our team, competitive compensation, and the flexibility you desire.

Ready to Take Control of Your Career?

Join thousands of healthcare professionals who have discovered the freedom and flexibility of locum tenens work.