Licensing and credentialing are part of the healthcare world, regardless of how you work. That means locum tenens doctors still have to follow credentialing and licensing standards.
If you’re considering making the switch, it’s crucial to stay up to date with locum tenens documentation requirements in all its forms. Read our guide below to learn more about these licensing and credentialing rules.
What Is Locum Tenens?
Locum tenens providers are like substitute doctors: they fill an open position at a health facility. For example, they might fill in for an employee going on maternity leave or an extended vacation.
They can also fill job openings after someone leaves, but before the facility can hire a new employee. In other cases, these doctors step in during busy seasons to help ensure appropriate coverage and care.
Locum tenens has proven to be quite beneficial for healthcare facilities and physicians alike. The process helps reduce staffing shortages and expand access to specialized services.
Plus, these physicians often receive higher pay, schedule flexibility, and unique experiences.
Locum Tenens Physician Requirements
As with traditional roles, locum tenens doctors must get a medical degree, a license, and credentials. However, they may have different licensing and credentialing standards.
Licensing Requirements
Although they can vary by state, locum tenens licensing requirements may include:
- Proof of medical education and postgraduate training
- Board certification
- Background check
- Professional references
- Recent clinical work history
It’s recommended that you apply for a license in the state you plan to practice at least 90 days before an assignment. Some states allow you to apply for expedited licensure through the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact.
Credentialing Requirements
Credentialing requirements can also differ by state. With that said, some of the most common aspects include:
- Proof of training, residency, and fellowship
- Verification of work history
- Background checks
- Active medical licenses
- Board certifications
- Malpractice claims history
- References
- Immunization records
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) certification
The facility will then verify the information, check your references, and potentially ask for additional documentation before finalizing your credentials.
What to Know About Working With a Locum Tenens Agency
While you can handle locum tenens contracts independently, most physicians opt to work with an agency. To determine which ones are reputable and align with your needs, you may need to do some research.
Ask colleagues for recommendations and read reviews. Look for agencies that have longstanding partnerships with health systems or membership with the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations.
Suitable agencies should have these qualities:
- Offer a variety of jobs that match your work preferences
- Match job opportunities to your goals and qualifications
- Provide licensure and credentialing support
- Prioritize communication and job clarity so you know what you are getting into
You should also determine if the agencies offer any benefits, such as housing assistance, travel coordination, or malpractice coverage.
What About Taxes and Benefits?
Since locum tenens doctors are independent contractors, they do not receive employer-sponsored benefits. They must also pay their own taxes, rather than having money taken out of each paycheck.
If you choose to go locum tenens, be prepared to buy health insurance, pay quarterly taxes, and contribute to a retirement fund.
What About Continuing Medical Education?
Regardless of whether you work in a traditional setting or locum tenens, you’ll still need to complete CME. That’s because CME requirements, set by state medical boards, are necessary for licensure and certification.
Luckily, locum tenens contracts can make it easy to customize your schedule to fit your needs. For example, if you want to attend a CME conference, schedule your assignments around it to ensure you’re available.
