Most 18-year-olds are unsure about how their careers will pan out, but Kristie P. has a different story—she knew from the very start that nursing was her calling.
After spending 20 years working as a registered nurse (RN), balancing her time between caring for patients and starting a family, Kristie eventually decided it was time to work toward her ultimate life goal of becoming a nurse practitioner (NP).
“I believe being a nurse practitioner is part of who I am at my core,” Kristie said. “Being able to be in a place where I feel like I can make a real difference is crucial for me.”
As a newly-minted NP, Kristie specialized in family practice and took a permanent position in Utah, working to provide essential primary care to children and adults alike. But after a few years, she began to feel burnt out.
“I worked at a hospital system here in my home state and I was working 60 hours a week,” she said. “It was really hard and it wore me out.”
Recognizing that the issue wasn’t with the profession itself, but the nagging feeling of unfulfillment in her permanent job, Kristie decided to pursue a role as a locum tenens provider with Barton Associates.
“The benefit of Barton is that I have been able to be more in charge of my mental health,” Kristie explained. “I get to make the decision of whether I am all in or need to step back. It is much healthier for me.”
Kristie’s Locum Tenens Experience
Kristie began her first locum assignment in January 2024 at an Indian Health Service (IHS) facility in New Mexico. While originally contracted for a few months, Kristie extended her stay multiple times until August 2024.
“My experience has been so positive that I did not want to do anything else,” Kristie said.
This experience contrasted with her full-time position— where she felt she was not learning anymore. The nature of locum tenens work made Kristie feel more engaged and invested in her role.
“I could teach skills and share my experience while also learning from others,” she said.
As a locum tenens NP, Kristie treated a variety of diseases and injuries from COVID-19 to sprained ankles. Once a week, she would visit a local high school and see students who lacked a primary care provider.
“If a person couldn’t get in to see their physician soon enough, I could go in and fill the gap until they were able to see a new patient,” Kristie said.
As a locum tenens NP, Kristie liked how she could create her own schedule and negotiate pay, and she appreciated that she worked a temporary assignment at a facility that “gave her grace” by accommodating her needs.
“As a locum, it felt much more fulfilling than someone breathing down your neck all the time,” Kristie said. “I have a lot more control over what I put in versus what I get back.”
Working locum tenens also allowed her to explore a brand new part of the country, something she didn’t have access to while working a permanent position.
“In order to be a more full person—travel is just necessary,” she said.
In her time off, Kristie visited scenic Route 66 and learned about the rich Native American culture in New Mexico.
Kristie also didn’t just help people—she even rescued a cat. The cat, named Sprite, now lives with Kristie in her home state, now fully-settled with a permanent, loving family.
The Importance of a Strong Recruiter Relationship
When Kristie started her locum search with Barton, she connected with Faith, a recruiter who connected her with an assignment in New Mexico.
“She has been nothing short of excellent,” Kristie said about Faith.
Throughout the hiring process and during her time in New Mexico, Kristie and Faith built a strong relationship.
“I feel like we have a personal connection where she hears my honest thoughts and feelings,” Kristie said.
Kristie’s advice to others seeking locum tenens assignments is to take the time and build a solid relationship with your recruiter.
“I feel comfortable enough to reach out, or even send a picture of my cat,” she said.
When Kristie was present at her assignment, she reported no issues or missed payments.
“Never had a missed payment or any problems,” she said. “It was great!”Feeling inspired by Kristie’s story? Start your locum journey today by reviewing our job board!
