The Ultimate Locum Tenens Guide
Ready to begin your locum tenens journey? Are you currently on an assignment and looking for guidance? We’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate every step of the way.
If you’re interested in:
- Length & pay of assignments
- Types of facilities you can work in
- Health insurance options
- Credentialing process
- Tax obligations
Our free guide covers it all. Below is the link to our free guide and common FAQs you might have.

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Common Locum Tenens FAQs
We pulled the following questions directly from our free guide.
Where Would I Work as a Locum Tenens Provider?
Facilities that have a need for locum tenens providers can be hospitals, primary care centers, hospices, and dental offices. In general, there is a need across all 50 states, in all types of medical centers. The role of the recruiter is to find the right facility for you.
How Long Do Locum Tenens Assignments Last?
Depending on the need of the facility, contracts range from a couple days to over a year. If you find yourself eager to leave the facility or extend your stay, it is best to talk to your recruiter.
How Much Does Locum Tenens Pay?
Locum tenens can pay very well due to the negotiation advantage they have and the increasing demand for care across the United States. Providers who work locum tenens on a full-time basis can earn as much or more than those in permanent roles. Locum pay directly correlates to the amount of work the provider puts in, because you are paid on an hourly basis. As for a provider in a permanent position, they are generally not paid overtime and limited to their salary.
How can I get Health Insurance as a Locum Provider?
Self-employed individuals, such as locum providers, are free to choose the plan that best fits their situation. To get covered, start by reviewing state insurance exchanges, private insurance plans, or contacting an independent insurance agent.
What is the Credentialing Process Like?
To ensure you are credentialed and licensed before your first day on assignment, Barton’s team verifies your:
- Education
- Training
- Experience
- Medical Licensure
What Are My Tax Obligations as a Locum Tenens Provider?
As a 1099 locum tenens contractor, it is your responsibility to report your earnings to the IRS. Remember, you’ll owe federal taxes, state taxes and self-employment taxes on your earnings. In this case, we recommend saving up to 40% of your income.
What May I Deduct from my Taxes?
- Health insurance: Since locum ten are considered “independent contractors”, self-employed professionals can also deduct 100 percent of the health insurance premiums they pay throughout the year, with certain exceptions.
- Travel, lodging & meals: Unreimbursed travel, lodging, and 50 percent of meal costs incurred during a locum job outside the general vicinity of where you live are deductible. However, there are some exceptions. We recommend reviewing our in-depth guide for more information and reaching out to a tax professional.
- Automotive: With proper documentation, you can deduct travel between your home and a temporary job site, job interviews, and conferences.
- Education: Generally, costs incurred with improving your current skill set are deductible
Locum Tenens Jobs
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Physician Assistant - Emergency Medicine
Your new job is waiting in California! Our client is looking for a physician assistant specializing in emergency medicine to begin coverage in early June. Hours include 2p - 12a or 4p - 2a shifts. The selected locum will be handling lacerations, I&Ds, sore throats, ear infections, and other emergency... View This Job
Louisiana is the site of your next locum tenens opportunity! Our client is looking for a dentist to begin coverage in early April. Hours include 4-8 hour shifts for 2-3 days per week. The selected locum will be handling cleanings, fillings, extractions, and other general dentistry procedures. There is a... View This Job
We are seeking a skilled Physician Assistant specializing in General Surgery for a locum tenens position at a Hospital in Maryland. This 140-day assignment starts on 06/02/2025, with a flexible schedule of 5-7 shifts per week, potentially covering either 12-hour night shifts (8 PM to 8 AM) or 24-hour in-house... View This Job
Travel to California for your next locum tenens assignment! Our client is looking for a nurse practitioner specializing in urgent care to begin coverage in early June. Hours include 10 hour shifts (4p - 2a) for 4 nights per week. The selected locum will be handling X-ray reads, stitches, ankle... View This Job
We are seeking a skilled Nurse Practitioner specializing in General Surgery for a locum tenens position at a Hospital in Maryland. This 140-day assignment starts on 06/02/2025, with a flexible schedule of 5-7 shifts per week, potentially covering either 12-hour night shifts (8 PM to 8 AM) or 24-hour in-house... View This Job
Travel to California for your next locum tenens assignment! Our client is looking for a physician assistant specializing in urgent care to begin coverage in early June. Hours include 10 hour shifts (4p - 2a) for 4 nights per week. The selected locum will be handling X-ray reads, stitches, ankle... View This Job