Locum Tenens Practice

The use of temporary clinical practice assignments, termed “Locum tenens” (LT), has become widespread over the past 30 years. Recently, more surgeons are seeking out and becoming involved in this practice type, and the need for temporary surgeons has also increased. There are several key elements surgeons should consider as they evaluate potential LT positions including licensing, compensation, malpractice coverage, call and clinical expectations, and duration/longevity of the planned position. This chapter provides an overview of the process of identification of these positions as well as the key considerations for a surgeon entering this practice type.