You, a MFM physician, and a world that needs you more than ever
If you’re a full-time Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) physician, you don’t need another article telling you what you experience every day. But allow us to set the scene so we’re on the same page:
- High-risk pregnancies are on the rise as patients delay childbirth, while MFM coverage continues to thin, especially outside major metro areas
- 35% of counties in the U.S. considered maternity care deserts. Many areas, including parts of the Dakotas, Wyoming, western Colorado, and tribal lands, require 3–6 hours travel to the nearest specialist.
- Each year, up to 8% of pregnant women in the U.S. (around 30,000–50,000) face high-risk pregnancies.
- The U.S.’ maternal mortality rate is significantly higher than in most other high-income countries, often double or triple the rates seen in peer nations.
That’s a lot of stress on a system that wasn’t designed to bend this far. Enter locum tenens: the flexible choice MFM physicians may not be considering.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine workforce shortages are worsening
By 2030, there will be a shortage of around 5,170 obstetricians to meet demand nationally. With roughly 1,600 MFM specialists in the U.S., there simply aren’t enough perinatologists to go around. It’s a bit like hosting a dinner party for 50 guests with no sous chefs in sight.
What the shortage means for practicing MFMs
For MFMs on staff, shortages often translate to:
- Being the only MFM covering an entire region (all eyes on you, all the time).
- Managing increasingly complex cases with limited institutional backup (no lifelines, just extra coffee).
- Stepping away even briefly risks interrupting patient care (sorry, family vacation).
Why locum tenens is becoming a better option for MFMs
Locum tenens perinatology offers a solution to staffing gaps while allowing MFMs to focus on clinical expertise instead of administrative burden. Hospitals and clinics can maintain continuous, high-quality care during patient surges, provider leaves, or recruitment delays. Most importantly, patients get the specialized care they need during a vulnerable life experience. It’s a win-win-win.
Benefits of locum tenens for MFM physicians
- Flexible Scheduling: Choose assignments that match your lifestyle (yes, even that dream cabin in Montana).
- Higher Earning Potential: Premium pay with lodging and travel include (cha-ching!).
- Diverse Clinical Experience: Urban medical centers to rural hospitals.
- Reduced Administrative Burden: Less employed-staff requirements and fewer meetings (bingo!).
- Meaningful Impact in Underserved Areas: Bridge gaps in access and improve outcomes.
- Streamlined onboarding with quick credentialing and licensing.
- Pathway to Permanent Roles: Test-drive workplaces before committing long-term.
Where locum tenens Maternal-Fetal Medicine jobs are needed most
Demand is especially high in states with large or underserved maternity populations:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- Pennsylvania
In many counties, there is no permanent perinatologist or OB/GYN, so locum MFMs are quite literally keeping services and patients alive.
How MFMs use locum tenens at different career stages
- Reduce relentless calls without leaving medicine (your sanity will thank you in).
- Transition from an unsustainable permanent role (see you later, burnout).
- Supplement income while becoming your own business (hello vacation fund and new tax strategies).
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Locum Tenens FAQs
For those who are not MFM physicians, you might be wondering…
What Is Maternal-Fetal Medicine?
MFM, or perinatology, focuses on managing high-risk pregnancies and fetal health concerns before, during, and after birth. Basically, it’s the complication whisperer of obstetrics.
What Is a Perinatologist?
A perinatologist (MFM specialist) is an OB/GYN with fellowship training in high-risk pregnancies. All perinatologists are OB/GYNs, but not all OB/GYNs are perinatologists. Think of perinatologists as the “special forces” of pregnancy care.
Do Perinatologists Deliver Babies?
Yes, especially in high-risk cases where ongoing specialized care is required. Some consult, while others manage deliveries directly. In short: when the stakes are high, they’re the MVP in scrubs.
Is Locum Tenens Right for You as an MFM Physician?
Pros
- High earning potential
- More control over your schedule
- Reduced administrative burden
- Geographic and professional flexibility
Cons
- Possible travel between assignments
- Episodic work
- Longer credentialing if not in a compact state
Reclaim how you practice medicine
Locums is upgrading the way you show up for patients, your sanity, and your bank account. Practice medicine the way you deserve: impactful, flexible, and sustainable.
