After years of medical school, rotations, and intense residency training, many physicians feel both accomplished and exhausted. The pressure to jump straight into a permanent attending role is strong — but it’s not the only option.
Locum tenens offers new physicians the chance to start practicing on their own terms, explore different settings, and even earn more right out of the gate. If you’ve just completed residency, here’s how to get started — and why locums might be the smartest move you make.
Why Consider Locums After Residency?
- Flexibility: Take control of your schedule and recover from burnout before locking into a long-term job.
- Exploration: Try different practice settings, geographic regions, and team cultures to find what fits you best.
- High Income: Locum jobs often pay significantly more than entry-level permanent roles — with fewer hours and no admin work.
- Low Commitment: Take short-term contracts while deciding where and how you want to practice long-term.
- Great for Gap Years: Locums is ideal if you’re considering a fellowship, academic post, or relocation in the near future.
Step 1: Get Licensed (Think IMLC!)
If you don’t already have a state license (or want to work in another state), you’ll need to apply. Many states participate in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), which allows physicians to quickly obtain licenses in multiple states through one streamlined process.
If your primary license is from an IMLC state and you meet the eligibility criteria, your locum options multiply fast — and agencies like Odyssey Staffing can handle most of the paperwork.
Step 2: Choose a Locum Tenens Agency
Start by registering with a reputable locum tenens agency. Look for one that:
- Works with your specialty
- Offers nationwide contracts and licensing help
- Provides malpractice insurance and credentialing support
- Assigns a dedicated recruiter (not a rotating team)
Odyssey Staffing specializes in matching early-career physicians with rewarding locum roles across the U.S. — with travel, housing, and paperwork included.
Step 3: Build a Strong CV Package
Even if you’re just out of residency, your CV matters. Include:
- Medical school and residency details
- Licenses and certifications (e.g. ACLS, BLS, DEA)
- Rotation experience by specialty or setting
- Any procedures or case volumes (especially for ER, surgery, or anesthesia)
Attach a professional photo and keep everything updated — facilities want to know you’re ready to hit the ground running.
Step 4: Prepare for Credentialing
Before you can start an assignment, you’ll go through a process called credentialing. This includes verifying your:
- Education and training
- Medical license(s)
- Work and rotation history
- References from attendings or program directors
This process can take 30–90 days depending on the facility, so starting early is key. Your agency should help you organize everything and submit it on your behalf.
Step 5: Pick Your First Assignment
Once you’re credentialed and licensed, it’s time to start! Some new physicians start with short contracts (1–2 weeks), while others jump into 3-month hospitalist, ER, or outpatient assignments.
Let your recruiter know your preferences for:
- Location (urban vs. rural)
- Shift types (days, nights, call)
- Workload (patient volumes, procedures)
- Housing or travel support needs
You’ll receive offers tailored to your goals — and you’re never locked in.
Bonus: Travel, Autonomy & Confidence
Locums lets you travel the country, gain independence, and build confidence faster than many permanent roles. You’ll meet new teams, try different EMRs, and adapt to new workflows — skills that will serve you throughout your career.
Plus, you avoid early-career burnout by choosing your pace and prioritizing work-life balance from day one.
Conclusion
If you’re a new physician considering your options after residency, locum tenens offers a unique opportunity to practice medicine on your own terms. With flexibility, high income potential, and the chance to explore different settings, it’s an option worth serious consideration.