the demands of diagnostic radiology, generating revenue, etc.).
There are many benefits to locums work, but as with anything there are drawbacks as well. An IR considering locum tenens positions, either as a short-term solution or a full-time career shift, should carefully consider some specific pros and cons.
Every locum tenens position is different, but all offer a unique kind of flexibility. This is a significant advantage: Locums are in full control of how often, how long and where they work.
provider will be hired for a limited time to temporarily perform the necessary clinical duties. Sometimes the locum will cover the temporary absence of a full-time employee (i.e., while they are on vacation), but often the locum will cover a vacant position until a full-time employee can be found.
Every locum tenens position is different, but all offer a unique kind of flexibility. This is a significant advantage: Locums are in full control of how often, how long and where they work. My locums positions varied greatly, from 1 week to 9 months in duration. During the 3 years I did locums work, I traveled all over the country, experiencing different practice models along the way—from private practice groups to academic centers to office-based laboratories. Throughout this experience, I was exposed to new procedure techniques, new equipment, and dramatically different workflows and staffing configurations. I even had the opportunity to train on cutting- edge devices that I would never have had access to if I had stayed in one location. More broadly, I was exposed to new ideas and perspectives about how to address the universal challenges that face our specialty (i.e., turf wars,
28 IRQ | SUMMER 2023
Benefits Training and networking I truly believe that my time as a locums made me a better and more competitive IR. I gained new confidence in my procedural skills by performing successful procedures despite having to navigate new and unknown equipment inventories. By working with constantly changing teams of technicians and nurses, and having to rely on them for challenging cases, I keenly honed my abilities for on-the-spot leadership and team building. At the same time, I improved my overall skillset by gaining exposure and training in new devices and new procedural techniques. My interactions with IRs from across the country significantly expanded my professional network. I sometimes think of these positions as mini-fellowships. When I returned to a full-time position I brought the experience and lessons of all those fellowships with me.
Full-time opportunities Each locums position I worked could be viewed as an extended job interview. Often, the group will evaluate their locums to see if they are a good fit to stay on permanently. During your locums contract, the group can directly observe your skillsets, how you work within the
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