Tuesday 20 September 2011

Now that I’m a locum tenens, who pays me?


Payment Faqs
Locum tenens providers are independent contractors.  As such, competitive compensation is typically based on hourly, daily and gross billing terms, as well as according to industry standards.  It is in the locum’s best interest to inquire about payment schedules prior to accepting the contract.  Some locums are more comfortable with weekly, rather than biweekly pay.  It is also important to discuss whether you will be paid by cheque or direct deposit.  Don’t forget to consider lodging expenses when thinking about your salary.  Lodging expenditures are covered on individual contract basis.  You are your own boss, so negotiations are always up to you!

We remain, as always,

 

Thursday 15 September 2011

Locum tenens Contract

Signing a contract as a locum tenens can be overwhelming.  It’s a smart idea to make a list of conditions that you want included in your contract negotiations.  Remember, the most important thing is that you’re comfortable with the contract when it’s in front of you.  We thought we might give you a helping hand with things to consider as you negotiate your contract:
Locum tenens Contract
1.      Obviously, it is important to inquire about salary, benefits and related expenses.
2.     Inquire about travel expenditures and living arrangements.  This is especially important if you’re   considering taking up a position out of town. 
3.     How long is the contract?  Some locum tenens will stipulate a trial period of the first month of a long placement, allowing the locum to back out if they are uncomfortable for any reason.  Industry standard  for this is usually 30 days.
4.      Make sure you know the provider you will report to.
5.   Get to know your placement before showing up at the door.  Clients are looking for enthusiastic locums.  Take an interest in their practice by asking questions such as, how long has the firm been in business?  Do they represent solo or group practices?  What do typical practice opportunities look like? What specialties does the office deal in?  What are the care facilities like?  Will you be working in more than one office?

We remain, as always,

Tuesday 6 September 2011

Complete your Locum Profile in the Best Possible Way

Locum Profile
So you’ve joined the team of online Do It Yourself locums!  After you’ve completed the registration, the next step is to build your profile.  The goal here is to create a stunning profile – one that will make clients fight to have you join their clinic as an associate!  This is the part where you have the most influence on how you sell yourself.  Why should I hire you?  Stay away from generic or bland words like responsible, diligent, and hardworking.  Save those character sketches for the interview. 

Your profile is the best way to immediately position yourself ahead of the pack, so . . . .  BE CREATIVE!  Cater to your strengths and interests.  Maybe your locum contract in Timmins offered you a unique perspective into the spinal problems of coal miners and it provided you with extensive experience in related fields.  Perhaps you have developed a keen interest in sports therapy working at an associateship near Mount Tremblant ski resort.  Feel free to highlight whatever you’ve learned that will set you apart from others searching for the same position – expand on how it broadened your perspectives in countless ways.    

Don’t be shy.  Add your best picture!  Let the client see a professional picture of you dressed in your Sunday finest.  Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words.  Put up a picture with a bright smile that says, “I’m excited and committed to being an excellent addition to the client’s office”.  You are a warm and personable - your picture reflects your accommodating personality!  Profiles with pictures and a detailed biography always receive the most responses. 

Don’t forget to continually update your profile!

We remain, as always,