Temporary physicians abate physician shortage crisis — 5 insights

Nine percent of physicians chose locum tenens in 2014, up from 6.4 percent in 2012, based on a Physicians Foundation survey, according to HealthcareDIVE. Locum tenens is Latin for "to stand in for."

Here are five insights:

1. More physicians may now view locum tenens as a career choice, with Millennials seeking more flexible work schedules.

2. Locum tenens physicians can avoid Affordable Care Act burdens, which is burning out many physicians. They don't have to deal with office politics, extensive paperwork and rigid schedules.

3. Locum tenens physicians are able to experience new practice settings with different coworkers, therefore avoiding monotony.

4. With an increasing physician shortage, healthcare systems are bringing on more locum tenens physicians to maintain services while searching for permanent physicians.

5. In 2015, the Staffing Industry Analysts estimated the locum tenens industry hit $3.1 billion, with about 150 agencies.

Recent articles:
9 statistics on ASC operating expenses: Salary & benefits, occupancy, medical supplies
Surgery Partners adds 3 ASCs in Q4, Laser Spine Institute CEO to become chairman of the board & more — 6 key notes on ASC companies
Take back control — The collaborative movement of independent physician groups

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Featured Webinars

Featured Whitepapers

Featured Podcast