Staffing shortages aren’t a future problem, they’re happening now. Hospitals and clinics everywhere are feeling the pressure, and it’s only getting harder to recruit and retain full-time staff.
That’s where Locum Tenens staffing comes in. It’s not just a temporary fix, it’s a strategic solution that gives you flexibility, fast coverage, and peace of mind.
If you’ve been wondering how Locum Tenens works or when to use it, this guide is for you.
Table of Contents
- What Does “Locum Tenens” Mean?
- How the Locum Tenens Model Works
- Benefits for Hospitals and Clinics
- Common Roles Filled Through Locum Tenens
- When Should You Consider Locum Tenens Staffing?
- Final Thoughts
📖 What Does “Locum Tenens” Mean?
“Locum Tenens” is a Latin phrase that means “to hold the place of.” In healthcare, it refers to a medical professional who temporarily fills in for another.
These professionals might cover a vacation, a medical leave, or a staffing shortage. They step in, take over the workload, and keep care moving without disruption.
⚙️ How the Locum Tenens Model Works
The process is straightforward.
Your facility contacts a staffing agency like Hathaway Healthcare Staffing. We handle everything—from matching you with a qualified provider to managing licensing, credentialing, and travel.
The provider works under your direction for the contracted period. That could be a few days, several weeks, or even a few months. When the assignment ends, you can either extend it, transition to a permanent hire, or bring in someone new.
It’s all up to you.
✅ Benefits for Hospitals and Clinics
Locum Tenens staffing gives your team critical support when it matters most. Here’s why more facilities are using it:
- Speed: Get coverage fast usually within days.
- Flexibility: Scale your team based on seasonal or emergency needs.
- Cost-efficiency: Avoid long-term salary, benefits, and overhead costs.
- Burnout protection: Give your full-time team a break without gaps in coverage.
- Quality care: Work with experienced, licensed providers ready to contribute on day one.
👨⚕️ Common Roles Filled Through Locum Tenens
Locum Tenens isn’t limited to physicians. It covers a wide range of roles, including:
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Physician Assistants (PAs)
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)
- Behavioral health professionals
- Specialists (e.g., cardiology, pediatrics, OB/GYN)
- Hospitalists and emergency care providers
If you’ve got a gap, there’s likely a Locum Tenens provider who can fill it.
📅 When Should You Consider Locum Tenens Staffing?
If you’re dealing with any of the following, it’s time to consider Locum Tenens:
- A provider going on maternity leave or extended vacation
- A staffing emergency or sudden departure
- A surge in patient volume (flu season, outbreaks, events)
- Delays in permanent hiring
- Expanding services or adding new departments
Locum Tenens helps you maintain continuity of care without overworking your existing staff.
In Conclusion
Locum Tenens staffing is more than just a stopgap, it’s a smart, strategic approach to modern healthcare. It helps you fill roles quickly, control costs, and support your permanent team.
If your facility needs dependable coverage fast, Hathaway Healthcare Staffing is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your staffing goals.
