Locum tenens anesthesiologists enjoy unmatched flexibility and high earning potential — but no two assignments are the same. From call schedules to case volumes, it’s important to know what you’re walking into so you can set expectations, negotiate fairly, and thrive on day one.

This guide breaks down the major variables that shape a locum anesthesiologist’s experience.

Call Expectations: Know Before You Sign

“Call” means different things in different facilities. Here are the most common types you’ll encounter:

• In-house call: You’re physically present at the facility overnight, often covering OB or trauma.
• Beeper call: You’re on standby from home or hotel, ready to respond within a specified time.
• Back-up call: You're available in case the primary provider needs support.

Key questions to ask:

• How often is call required?
• Is post-call time off guaranteed?
• What’s the typical volume during call?
• Is OB coverage or emergency surgery included?

Tip: Always confirm if call is included in the base rate or paid separately. If it’s in-house and high-volume, it should pay a premium.

Case Types: Bread-and-Butter or High-Acuity?

Locum assignments range from routine outpatient cases to Level 1 trauma centers. Your case mix might include:

• General surgery
• Orthopedics
• ENT
• OB/GYN
• Cardiothoracic (if fellowship-trained)
• Neuro (often in larger hospitals)

Discuss any procedural expectations in advance — including whether you’ll be performing regional blocks, epidurals, or central lines.

If you prefer to avoid OB, pediatrics, or complex cases, your recruiter can filter options to match your skill set and comfort level.

Supervision vs. Doing Your Own Cases

Some facilities follow a 1:4 CRNA supervision model. Others expect anesthesiologists to work solo or do a combination. Clarify the model before you arrive:

• Supervisory: Overseeing multiple CRNAs across concurrent rooms (requires good multitasking and documentation).
• Own cases: Full responsibility for the case from pre-op to post-op (more control, more work).
• Care team hybrid: Sometimes you supervise; sometimes you perform the anesthetic yourself.

Tip: If you have a strong preference, say so upfront. Not every anesthesiologist enjoys juggling four ORs or being hands-on all day.

Hospital Culture & Control

Your influence on policies, case flow, and team dynamics may be limited as a locum. Still, providers who show initiative and adapt quickly often get invited back — or asked to extend.

Look for facilities with organized OR schedules, helpful nurse managers, and stable surgical teams. These assignments usually lead to the best experiences — and smooth days.

How to Prepare for Any Assignment

• Keep your CV updated with case logs, call experience, and supervisory models
• Ask to review the on-call schedule before confirming
• Understand the EMR system and request training if needed
• Know who’s responsible for post-op pain management and consults

Being proactive before your first day helps avoid confusion and builds trust with the clinical team.

Conclusion

Locum anesthesia work offers variety, challenge, and reward — but every assignment brings a unique mix of call, cases, and control. By asking the right questions and partnering with a recruiter who understands your preferences, you can land contracts that align with your lifestyle and clinical goals.