Do you have everything you need to start work as a locum? Double check using this easy to use checklist!
1 to 3 months before deciding to take on a locum role:
- Research what locum work looks like in your specialization
- Research what kind of locum hours/duties you can expect in your specialization
- Decide how much locum work will fit into your lifestyle
- Decide whether you will be able to manage locum work in addition to your full time position or whether you’ll be doing locum work full time instead
- Decide if you’re willing to travel
- Research locum work for your specialization in other provinces, cities, or abroad
- Look at job postings through locum agencies, locum job boards, classifieds, or other job search websites and start applying
- Select a role that is a good fit for you
- Prepare and sign a locum tenens physician agreement
In the time after you’ve chosen a locum role:
- Incorporate your locum practice or register for a sole proprietorship
- Register for a GST number
- Budget for your next year’s taxes/set a % of locum pay to put aside
- Apply for any Visas/research immigration policies for roles abroad
- Set a time to do a patient handoff with the existing physician
- Introduce yourself to the other physicians and administrative staff in your new office
- Obtain any required keycards/passwords for office or software access
- Prepare your billing information
- Check that you have all the equipment/materials you need in the exam or operating room
On your first day:
- Direct any questions you have to the right medical and administrative staff
- Read over patient files and do research on the previous physician’s style of practice
- Trust your own medical practice experience
- Prepare any administrative procedures beforehand so you don’t have to rush
- Be adaptable with your time and don’t rush!
Don’t forget to negotiate your contract!
This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by RBC Ventures Inc. or its affiliates.
