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
Physician - Orthopedic Surgeon
We are seeking an Orthopedic Surgeon for a 5-day locum tenens assignment in California, starting on Aug 29, 2025. This critical role involves 24-hour on-call coverage, managing emergency orthopedic cases such as fractures and trauma across two facilities during the Labor Day weekend.Job DetailsLocation: CaliforniaStart Date: Aug 29, 2025LOA: 5... View This Job
We are seeking a skilled Dentist for a 1-day locum tenens assignment in North Carolina, starting on Aug 8, 2025. This role involves daytime shifts from 8am to 2pm, where you will be the sole provider. The successful candidate will handle general dentistry procedures, including extractions and dentures, ensuring high-quality... View This Job
We are seeking a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for a 36-day locum tenens assignment in Pennsylvania, beginning on Oct 1, 2025. This role requires a provider experienced in Level 4 NICU settings, available for multiple shifts including day, night, and weekend options. The selected candidate will utilize the Cerner EMR system... View This Job
Our client is seeking a dedicated Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner to join a dynamic team in California, starting Aug 4, 2025. This full-time role focuses on providing surgical assistance for orthopedic procedures, including hips and knees, with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm. The assignment is set for 80... View This Job
We are seeking an Orthopedic Physician Assistant for a locum tenens assignment in California. This role, starting on Aug 4, 2025, involves a commitment of 80 days, primarily focusing on surgical assists for orthopedic procedures such as hips and knees. The schedule includes Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm, with an emphasis... View This Job
We are seeking a Hematology/Oncology Physician for a 60-day locum tenens assignment in Massachusetts. This role, starting on Sep 1, 2025, offers a flexible schedule with options for a 4 or 5-day work week and includes night and weekend call rotations for inpatient consults. The ideal candidate will provide care... View This Job