best locum time period

[deleted684261]

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For all of those peep that does locum, what's a good time period for locum? one week, two week, one month? I have some vacations and want to locum during my vacation. But want to know if I should request my vacation in how many weeks blocks to do locum. Thanks.

 

[ryanjmy]

You can do as little as one week. They charge 40% more than they are paying you so they can pay all your expenses and still be profitable with you only working one week.

 

[psychbender]

Some places, though, are looking for longer-term locums (over to six months commitment). One week only, here and there, can be a little harder, unless you get several state licenses, and are willing to travel to a different one each time. Once a few places get to like you, though, they may reach out to you via the locums company to see when you are next available

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[deleted684261]

Thanks Ryan ... so is it better to do more than 1 week at a time for locum for more pay etc ? Because I can request my vacations as long as up to 4 weeks. So just wondering how to strategically arrange my vacation blocks....

 

[deleted684261]

Some places, though, are looking for longer-term locums (over to six months commitment). One week only, here and there, can be a little harder, unless you get several state licenses, and are willing to travel to a different one each time. Once a few places get to like you, though, they may reach out to you via the locums company to see when you are next available

Sent from my SM-G930V using SDN mobile

I think I will try to arrange 1 month block vacation ... just to be sure ...

 

[ryanjmy]

Thanks Ryan ... so is it better to do more than 1 week at a time for locum for more pay etc ? Because I can request my vacations as long as up to 4 weeks. So just wondering how to strategically arrange my vacation blocks....

I'm basically in the same situation as you. I get 13 weeks of vacation and I do locums 8 or so weeks a year. Here's how you play the game:

I. If you're working through a locums company ask for about 10% more than what they initially offer. Give a reason like I typically make $$$...Most of the time this works but not always. I have priced myself out of a gig or two.

2. Do a week or two. Do a good job. They will want you back.

3. Then ask for more money, another 10%. Give some reason like it was busier than I thought or whatever. At this point the locums company has little overhead as they've already sunk time and money into getting you licensed and credentialed. This always works.

4. If you have flexability you can work with a practice on what dates they most need help with. You can sometimes get a "premium" rate. This can be 50% more than the base rate.

5. Rinse/repeat

 

[Gaseous Clay]

Speaking of locums, we need coverage for vacation time in 2019 if any of you are interested. State of Georgia. I can provide more details if you want them including which weeks we need coverage.

 

[dchz]

I think there is a chance that I might end up doing locums. What about cold-calling hospitals directly??? anyone have any experiences on this?