Approaches to IR Locums

To start off, we discuss what locums means for each of these clinicians, including inpatient vs outpatient work. Most locums opportunities are in mid-sized cities and smaller cities, due to increased demand in these areas. Locums work is a way for IRs to take control of their practices, making it a very appealing work model. The ratio of IR to DR for each of these clinicians ranges from 70:30 up to 90:10. Employers need locums to prevent burnout of their FTE employees, and to reduce call in areas where IRs are overworked. Employers also look to locums to build service lines and bring in procedures that aren’t currently being done at their institutions. It is a rewarding opportunity for both employer and employee.

Next, we review job expectations and the difference between inpatient and outpatient locums work. There are generally two types of clients, one needing someone to fill the role of a person who works at FTE, and another where the IR department is made up of a roster of rotating locums providers. Being in locums, you get exposure to so many different people, and practices and you get to expand your network. This opens up many opportunities that you would not get at one location. Some of the downsides are the need to constantly adapt, use equipment you are not as familiar with, and work with staff who do not know your preferences or even glove size. However, you get to build your schedule, and you have the power to work where you want when you want.

Finally, we discuss some of the contracts, reimbursement, and insurance details. The three discuss the differences between being a W2 employee versus a 1099 employee, comparing what happens with health insurance and retirement. They also discuss the pros and cons of a 1099 versus owning an LLC versus starting an S corporation. All three physicians highly recommend researching these and speaking to a lawyer about your best options until you fully understand these concepts. They discuss licensure, credentialing and malpractice insurance, as well as whether they recommend using an agency for these as a locums. Lastly, they discuss reimbursement, including models such as a flat rate for a week versus a deconstructed model that consists of a daily rate, a call rate, and an overtime rate.