International Locum Tenens Work
Nearly 30,000 physicians in the US work in the locum tenens field, which is a temporary physician job. This option for employment is growing in popularity, but in spite of this not all practicing locum tenens realize there are international placements.
Physicians have been working overseas for years, but generally during humanitarian missions. A changing global atmosphere and a growing scarcity of doctors have led to a surge in overseas locum tenens requirements in the last decade.
Australia and New Zeland are the most common choice for physicians. Bermuda locum tenens demand is growing quickly. In all of these countries, the health care systems are comparable and the language is the same, something many US physicians find appealing.
While international assignments are often easier and more rewarding than many physicians expect, there can be a few obstacles: Physicians are not only entering a new facility or practice, as with domestic locum tenens, they are entering a completely new health care system. For example, New Zealand’s socialized medicine offers other sets of parameters than America’s managed care approach. Medical terminology is also different.
The paperwork process for overseas locum tenens work isn’t difficult, but it does require some work. Because of this most contracts are for one year.
All international locum tenens physicians must gather certain criteria: an active medical license, board certification and references from past employers and coworkers. The employment agency will help you with work visas and insurance.
Choose a locum tenens staffing company that is willing to work with you through the search and credentialing process. The more comprehensive staffing companies will also help you with travel, housing, and provide introductions to other area doctors.
International locum tenens can be a great fit for doctors who are willing to keep their year long commitment, and eager to encounter medicine outside the US. This is an experience professionals outside of the medical profession do not have the chance to experience. Doctors will learn invaluable lessons in medicine outside of the United States and Canada.
Obtaining a locum tenens job have never been easier. Using a specialized staffing company will help find the perfect locum tenen jobs.
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