Locum

Locum, short for locum tenens from Latin meaning 'holding the place', is a temporary substitute professional who takes the place of a regular staff member. The term is most commonly used in healthcare to describe physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other clinicians who provide temporary coverage. The concept also exists in other professions, including dentistry, veterinary medicine, and law, though most widely associated with medicine.

Locum tenens assignments vary in length from a single shift to several months. They are typically arranged through staffing agencies or hospital networks, and may be funded by the facility or by the locum themselves. Requirements usually include current licensure in the jurisdiction, credentialing, and malpractice coverage. Some assignments require onboarding and orientation to local systems or electronic health records. Telelocum arrangements allow remote coverage for certain specialties, supplementing in-person locums.

Advantages for facilities include staffing flexibility, temporary coverage for vacancies, and the ability to maintain services during peak demand or staff shortages. For clinicians, locum work can offer varied experience, travel opportunities, and the ability to balance personal or professional considerations. Drawbacks include potential disruptions to continuity of care, patient familiarity, administrative burden, and variability in work environments and pay. Staffing quality and licensing compliance are essential considerations in locum arrangements.