As the holiday season approaches, you may find yourself working as your loved ones are celebrating together. Whether it be getting called into the hospital, being scheduled, or having your vacation request denied, missing the holidays is a bummer. Believe it or not, there are ways you can handle this that don’t involve simply quitting – although it would achieve the goal, we don’t recommend it. Here are 3 tips for being a locum during the holidays!
Set Expectations with Your Recruiter
Locum tenens providers generally work holidays because that’s when permanent providers take vacation time. So although this makes it difficult for you to take time off during the holidays, it’s not impossible.
Let your recruiter know ahead of time of any accommodations you may need. If it’s possible, your recruiter will do whatever they can to make it happen. It’s important to set clear expectations with your recruiter before accepting an offer.
Pro Tip: This usually means higher pay for the locum. If you do have to work the holidays, negotiate for higher pay.
Plan Family Time Between Shifts
You’re not in prison – your family can come visit whenever they want! Oftentimes locum tenens providers bring their significant others on assignment with them and the holiday season is no exception.
Having your family come out to visit especially works if your job entails a lot of call coverage. Sure there is the chance you’ll be called into work, but your family will be close by and that’s the most important thing.
If you can’t get your family out to where you’re on assignment, still set aside time to have a Zoom call or FaceTime with them. Technology is a wonderful thing!
Visit Home
On the flip side, see if you can coordinate time to fly home for the holidays. There is a chance you won’t be able to celebrate on the exact day of the holiday(s), but we’re sure your family would be willing to move things around for you if necessary.
To try to coordinate this, you would likely speak directly to your supervisor or whoever you report to. we would recommend doing so sooner rather than later because you likely aren’t the only person who will have this idea.
Being away from your loved ones for the holiday season can be really hard. Unfortunately, healthcare facilities can’t just close down for the holidays like other businesses can. Thankfully though with locum tenens, you are able to navigate this time of year significantly easier than if you were working a permanent job.
