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.
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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
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Physician - Orthopedic Surgeon
We are seeking an Orthopedic Surgeon Physician for a 20-day assignment in North Dakota, starting Nov 4, 2026. This role involves a schedule of clinic and call during the week, complemented by 24-hour weekend call from an out-of-house setting. The successful candidate will manage outpatient orthopedic evaluations, diagnose and treat... View This Job
Physician - Emergency Medicine
Our client is seeking a dedicated Emergency Medicine Physician for a challenging 18-day assignment in Indiana, starting Oct 1, 2026. This vital role requires a physician to expertly manage a diverse range of critical cases within a trauma ER setting, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and contributing to... View This Job
We are actively seeking a dedicated Pain Management Physician to join our client's team in Maine. This 60-day assignment commences on Jan 4, 2027, with a consistent schedule from 8am to 5pm. The role primarily involves managing a diverse range of pain cases, including referrals for conditions such as bursitis,... View This Job
We are seeking a skilled Obstetrics/Gynecology Physician for an engaging 13-day assignment in Georgia, commencing Sep 11, 2026. This vital role involves 24-hour call shifts, with out-of-house call duties requiring a 30-minute response time. The Physician will manage deliveries, provide full scope OB/GYN care, and cover emergency department call, ensuring... View This Job
Physician - Orthopedic Surgeon
Our client in Kentucky is seeking an Orthopedic Surgeon for a 60-day assignment starting Aug 24, 2026. This full-time clinic and call role, with shifts from 8:30am - 5:30pm, requires comfort with consistent procedures. Responsibilities include rounding, patient consults, trauma, joint and fracture repairs, arthroscopy, and total joint replacements of... View This Job
Nurse Practitioner - Family Practice
We are seeking a dedicated Family Practice Nurse Practitioner for a 120-day assignment with our client in Alaska, commencing Aug 24, 2026. This role involves providing care across shifts such as 8am-5pm and 10:30am-7pm. The practitioner will manage a diverse patient caseload, addressing conditions ranging from respiratory infections and flu... View This Job