The Ultimate Locum Tenens Guide
Ready to begin your locum tenens journey? Are you currently on an assignment and looking for guidance? We’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate every step of the way.
If you’re interested in:
- Length & pay of assignments
- Types of facilities you can work in
- Health insurance options
- Credentialing process
- Tax obligations
Our free guide covers it all. Below is the link to our free guide and common FAQs you might have.

Hear From a Locum Tenens Expert Today!
Do you have any unanswered questions? Open to starting your locum journey? Let us assist.
Please complete our form and we'll get in touch with you soon!
Common Locum Tenens FAQs
We pulled the following questions directly from our free guide.
Where Would I Work as a Locum Tenens Provider?
Facilities that have a need for locum tenens providers can be hospitals, primary care centers, hospices, and dental offices. In general, there is a need across all 50 states, in all types of medical centers. The role of the recruiter is to find the right facility for you.
How Long Do Locum Tenens Assignments Last?
Depending on the need of the facility, contracts range from a couple days to over a year. If you find yourself eager to leave the facility or extend your stay, it is best to talk to your recruiter.
How Much Does Locum Tenens Pay?
Locum tenens can pay very well due to the negotiation advantage they have and the increasing demand for care across the United States. Providers who work locum tenens on a full-time basis can earn as much or more than those in permanent roles. Locum pay directly correlates to the amount of work the provider puts in, because you are paid on an hourly basis. As for a provider in a permanent position, they are generally not paid overtime and limited to their salary.
How can I get Health Insurance as a Locum Provider?
Self-employed individuals, such as locum providers, are free to choose the plan that best fits their situation. To get covered, start by reviewing state insurance exchanges, private insurance plans, or contacting an independent insurance agent.
What is the Credentialing Process Like?
To ensure you are credentialed and licensed before your first day on assignment, Barton’s team verifies your:
- Education
- Training
- Experience
- Medical Licensure
What Are My Tax Obligations as a Locum Tenens Provider?
As a 1099 locum tenens contractor, it is your responsibility to report your earnings to the IRS. Remember, you’ll owe federal taxes, state taxes and self-employment taxes on your earnings. In this case, we recommend saving up to 40% of your income.
What May I Deduct from my Taxes?
- Health insurance: Since locum ten are considered “independent contractors”, self-employed professionals can also deduct 100 percent of the health insurance premiums they pay throughout the year, with certain exceptions.
- Travel, lodging & meals: Unreimbursed travel, lodging, and 50 percent of meal costs incurred during a locum job outside the general vicinity of where you live are deductible. However, there are some exceptions. We recommend reviewing our in-depth guide for more information and reaching out to a tax professional.
- Automotive: With proper documentation, you can deduct travel between your home and a temporary job site, job interviews, and conferences.
- Education: Generally, costs incurred with improving your current skill set are deductible
Locum Tenens Jobs
REVIEW OUR JOB LISTINGS
We are seeking a Family Medicine Physician for a 120-day locum tenens assignment in Indiana. This role commences on Sep 15, 2025, and features a flexible schedule, including day shifts from 8am-5pm and occasional evening shifts until 7pm. The physician will engage in comprehensive family medicine care covering patients of... View This Job
We are seeking a Neonatology Nurse Practitioner for a locum tenens assignment in Wisconsin. This opportunity, starting on Sep 20, 2025, involves providing sporadic coverage on specific dates through Oct 31, 2025. The role requires 24-hour shifts from 7a-7a, demanding a high level of dedication and expertise in neonatal care.Job... View This Job
We are seeking a Hematology/Oncology Nurse Practitioner for a 75-day locum tenens assignment in California. This opportunity begins on Oct 20, 2025, and features a Monday-Friday schedule from 8 AM to 5 PM. The role requires experience in hematology oncology, specifically proficiency in bone marrow biopsies.Job DetailsLocation: CaliforniaStart Date: Oct... View This Job
We are seeking a Hematology/Oncology Physician Assistant for a 75-day locum tenens assignment in California, beginning on Oct 20, 2025. This role requires conducting bone marrow biopsies and managing cases in Hematology and Oncology, with a Monday to Friday schedule from 8a to 5p. The ideal candidate should be proficient... View This Job
We are seeking a Hand Surgeon for a 16-week locum tenens assignment in Idaho. This pivotal role commences on Sep 2, 2025, and entails a 24-hour on-call schedule, addressing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, arthritis, and tendon injuries among other hand-related issues.Job DetailsLocation: IdahoStart Date: Sep 2, 2025LOA:... View This Job
We are seeking an Obstetrician/Gynecologist for a 60-day locum tenens assignment in Florida. This opportunity begins on Oct 1, 2025, and entails covering clinic and call throughout the week with a schedule structured as Monday through Friday clinic and call from 7 AM to 7 AM and Friday to Monday... View This Job