Jonny Hale

Add Adventure to Your Summer with Locum Tenens

With school wrapping up soon, summer vacations are not far behind, which can be a great time to turn locum tenens assignments into working vacations. Whether this will be your first contract or you are accustomed to accepting locum tenens jobs during other times of the year, to make the most out of a summer experience, it’s best to practice a little flexibility.

1. Be flexible with location choices.
Of course, everyone has their idea of the best places to go on vacation: mountains, beaches, amusement parks, resorts, or big cities. However, locum tenens contracts are based on where the needs for physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and CRNAs are greatest. Being flexible with where you are willing to travel for locums can deliver some unexpected benefits. First, it increases the likelihood of securing a short-term contract; holding out for specific cities may prolong the search. Second, accepting a temporary position in an unfamiliar area opens the door to new experiences. You could explore a variety of outdoor activities (instead of surfing at the beach, try out whitewater river rapids, for example). Also, many rural communities are within reasonable driving distances to local, state, and even national parks that boast trails, lakes, camping, and other sightseeing adventures.

2. Be flexible with facility size.
This suggestion goes hand-in-hand with being flexible on location. Being willing to serve in different size hospitals, health systems, and multi-specialty private practice groups within your practice scope, broadens the number of job possibilities for your consideration. These opportunities could bring some unsuspecting, yet welcomed, surprises. You may discover elements of the setting that suit your practice style or give you a break from your regular routine. Keeping an open mind about facility size could even improve the odds of finding an assignment closer to a preferred location.

3. Be flexible with timing.
Albeit this factor may not be as fluid as location or facility size, especially if you are trying to accommodate family schedules, but remaining flexible with length of contract could work in your favor. For example, an assignment that runs a few weeks allows for you to get acquainted with the area and devise an itinerary for the family before they arrive. A shorter assignment may fit better into personal schedules or provide more time for the vacation part of a working vacation. As always, be sure to update your All Star Healthcare Solutions consultant on your availability and any schedule changes.

4. Be flexible with family requirements.
The key to mixing family vacations with locum tenens is to understand and plan for both personal and professional commitments. Some providers may be okay with being on duty while partners and kids take in the sights and activities but value the downtime spent together. Others don’t want to miss out on the fun. In that case, it might make sense to tag on a few extra days to the assignment—before or after—to devote to family outings. Whenever you plan to have family members join you on a locum tenens contract, it is essential to communicate the details to your All Star consultant.

5. Be flexible in summer to-dos.
If a locum tenens job brings you to an unexpected location, get creative with how to spend your free time. In addition to outdoor activities, many smaller communities celebrate summer with fairs and festivals, which are fun ways to learn more about the region. Or just use the assignment destination as a home base, and on days off, drive to nearby cities to check out their sights and sounds.

6. Be flexible with planning.
If you have your heart set on a specific location and date to coincide with a personal vacation, then exercise a little flexibility in planning. As the saying goes, the sooner, the better, and All Star is always ready to help.

To learn more about how locum tenens can take you places this summer (and year-round) call an All Star Healthcare consultant at 800-928-0229, or contact us online, today!

by Jonny Hale

Amending the PRO Act for Locum Tenens Will Ensure Continuity of Quality Patient Care

Locum tenens physicians and advanced practice providers work as independent contractors. This status affords them the freedom and flexibility to choose temporary contracts that fit into their lives and schedules. It is what many providers appreciate most about working locum tenens.

However, that independent contractor designation could be at risk if Congress passes the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act.

In support of the clinicians and facilities who depend on the staffing services we provide to ensure patients receive the quality healthcare they deserve, in partnership with the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO), All Star Healthcare Solutions is asking members of both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate to pass legislation that would permanently designate locum tenens physicians and advanced practice providers as independent contractors.

Key Facts

• The provider shortage is expected to last several more years, leaving healthcare facilities with staffing voids. Facilities rely on All Star and locum tenens clinicians to fill those gaps.
• Approximately 52,000 locum tenens providers care for more than 7.5 million Americans every year, some of whom may not receive care otherwise.
• If the PRO Act passes, locum tenens providers would no longer qualify as independent contractors. Not only would this change their tax withholdings, but it could serve to dissuade physicians and advanced practice providers from accepting short-term contracts. That would impact the crucial services they provide to healthcare facilities and patients, including those in underserved communities.

If the proposed Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act becomes law without that permanent independent contractor designation, the locum tenens industry would be significantly impacted.

We invite you to join us in calling on Congress to prevent such a monumental disruption to our industry.

Here’s how you can make your voice heard:

• Go to NALTO.org/action and click on the button that best describes you:
  • NALTO Member or Affiliate,
  • Healthcare Provider, or
  • Facility That Utilizes Locum Tenens
• On the next screen, fill out the form with your home address, so the message is sent to your specific representative and senators.
• Select “Send Email.”

To learn more about the benefits of working locum tenens and how the practice alternative help hospitals, health systems, clinics, and other healthcare facilities meet their immediate and long-term staffing requirements, contact All Star Healthcare Solutions online or call us at 800-928-0229.

by Jonny Hale

Packing Tips for Your Next Locum Tenens Contract

Whether you are getting ready to fly out to a new locum tenens contract or preparing to depart on a dream vacation, packing is a necessity that easily can become rote or automatic. But a few minutes of careful attention toward what and how to pack, as suggested in the following tips, can make your time away smoother and more enjoyable.

Avoid Over- or Under-packing
There are two common packing strategies: One is to bring as little as possible, so you only have a carryon case instead of checking luggage; and the other is to pack for every conceivable possibility. Both approaches have pros and cons.

For example, allocating room for only scrubs may mean skipping the wait at baggage claim, but it doesn’t take into account off-duty activities you might enjoy. Will you need workout clothes? Are casual items enough, or is there a likelihood you might want to dine out or attend a cultural event that suggests a more formal attire? That said, if you will be gone only a few days for a quick assignment, then there is probably no need to bring along a variety of clothing.

Preparing for any possibility while away from home has certain advantages, but overpacking can cost time as well as cash if the luggage exceeds airline weight standards or requires multiple suitcases.

The trick is to determine wardrobe choices specific to each assignment based on contract length and, of course, location.

Plan for Weather
Indeed, Mother Nature may be the ultimate decider for what type of clothes to take on a trip. Review local forecasts for your assignment destination and plan accordingly, including possible options. For example, if you are going to a cold region, but do not own winter outerwear, bring along enough items to add layers for warmth. If you hope to have fun in the snow, check into renting gear once you arrive in town, saving valuable suitcase space.

Make a Locums List
Packing for locum tenens experiences differs from packing for vacations or leisure getaways. If you are new to the career alternative, compiling a list of must-have items will help in getting ready. In addition to organizing personal items, add copies of licenses, certificates, and CV to the list in case the facility asks for the documents once you arrive on site. (Note, these can be electronic files.)

Also, jot down anything you deem necessary to doing the job, such as a personal stethoscope or a favorite pair of work shoes. Don’t forget to include miscellaneous items. If you want to catch up on reading during downtime, add journals or books to the list. If you want to participate in hobbies while on assignment, write down all the gear you wish to bring.

Focus on Personal Well-being
As you know, it is important to bring medications on any trip (keep them in a carryon just in case your baggage catches a separate flight). But don’t forget vitamins, your favorite protein powder, melatonin, or any health or nutrition product you use on a regular basis.

Providers who frequently accept locum tenens jobs may find it worth the expenditure to keep a separate supply of medications and health products along with a full set of toiletries so they are always ready to go even on short notice.

Charge It
It seems like the number of electronic devices we rely on just keeps growing. Remember to pack chargers not only for your phone and computers or tablets, but also for electronic toothbrushes, flossers, or anything that requires a charge. If you use good old-fashioned batteries, replace the old ones with fresh batteries before you depart.

Get Organized
If you are particular about keeping clothes protected (and as wrinkle-free as possible) consider investing in packing cubes. Seasoned travelers swear by their convenience, especially if you are planning to be gone for a length of time and need to pack more pieces.

Don’t Forget Favorites
Finally, bring along items from home that will make you more comfortable while working locum tenens, such as favorite pajamas or pillowcase.

For more information about being prepared for locum tenens opportunities, call an All Star Healthcare Solutions consultant today at 800-928-0229, or contact us online.

by Jonny Hale

How Our Signature “Red Carpet” Service Model Fulfills All Your Staffing Needs

At All Star Healthcare Solutions, we promise to go above and beyond what is expected. That’s our signature “Red Carpet” Service, and it’s what can make a real impact on your staffing strategies.

We define “Red Carpet” Service as an authentic commitment to anticipate your needs, not as an “extra,” but rather as our standard. In action, that means All Star is always ready to assist with your staffing requirements, before, during, and after locum tenens contracts and direct hire placements.

Our “Red Carpet” Service Kicks In With Your First Contact
Starting with that first conversation with an All Star consultant, you will notice our sincere desire to find high-quality physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and CRNAs to care for your patients. We work with you to define all the relevant qualifications to practice in your facility, such as specialty, board certifications, and clinical experience. But we know there’s more to finding a provider who is a good match for your facility than just reviewing their medical background.

As part of our “Red Carpet” Service, we want to learn about your workplace culture. What type of personality characteristics will easily mesh well with your staff? For locums staffing services, what type of commitment do you expect from the provider? For example, do you prefer a clinician who can agree to several weeks at a time, one week a month, or someone who can fill an immediate position? The more information we gather upfront, the more we can be selective with which candidates are presented for your consideration.

Also, to aid our promise to go above and beyond, All Star consultants function within medical specialties. They learn the vocabulary and many practice standards, such as specific certifications or common procedures. The familiarity ensures a shared knowledge base.

Not only does this consultative approach help define your needs, but it also can save time because you aren’t left to sift through a pile of CVs that may not match the job requirements. Plus, our “Red Carpet” Service includes our medical services specialists. They coordinate with providers and healthcare facilities’ credentialing professionals to verify licenses, education, and background information.

Our “Red Carpet” Service Continues Throughout Your All Star Journey
In addition to placing highly skilled physicians and advanced providers where they are needed most, we strive to support hospitals, health systems, and other healthcare clients from the contract’s first day to the last day. Our “Red Carpet” Service comes with a commitment to keep communication flowing. Consultants are available to address needs and questions as they arise. What’s more, we regularly check in with providers and facility representatives just to touch base and make sure everyone’s needs are met.

Our “Red Carpet” Service Includes Post-Contract Follow-Up
All Star solicits administrators’ assessments upon completion of a provider’s service. For example, in addition to an evaluation of a locum tenens provider’s performance, we welcome an evaluation of our company’s performance. We want to know what went well, and where can we improve our processes and client support.

Also, we understand a facility’s need for locum tenens staffing services doesn’t necessarily end with the conclusion of a single assignment. The demand for additional clinicians may continue while organizations recruit for new staff members, or patient census fluctuations indicate short-term clinicians are required at another time. We are always ready to assist, so your patients receive the high-quality care they deserve, whether that entails developing ongoing strategies or responding to an unexpected need.

Our “Red Carpet” Service is Full Service
As a full-service staffing company, All Star is positioned to address all your needs: locums, locums-to-perm, and direct hire. In fact, to more effectively satisfy clients’ specific staffing circumstances, our Locums and Direct-Hire Divisions collaborate efforts: We help identify candidates to join your staff long term and fill voids in the interim.

To learn more about our signature “Red Carpet” Service and how it can benefit your facility, call an All Star Healthcare Solutions consultant at 800-928-0229, or contact us online, today!

by Jonny Hale

Camaraderie Among Physicians Eases Effects of Burnout

March 25–31 is designated as National Physicians Week, and all of us at All Star Healthcare Solutions wish to express our gratitude for all the physicians caring for people during their most vulnerable moments. Indeed, your dedication shines through all year long.

While the pandemic has demanded much more of healthcare professionals, according to a USA Today-Ipsos poll conducted this past winter, the majority of providers questioned conveyed their satisfaction with their profession, with 73 percent agreeing with the statement, “I love working in healthcare.” And over half of those surveyed feel “hopeful,” “motivated,” and “optimistic” about going to work.

Still, the past two years have been rather extraordinary. Although physicians were impacted by burnout prior to COVID-19, the pandemic accentuated the need to support the well-being of doctors and other healthcare professionals.

The American Medical Association defines physician burnout as a long-term stressed reaction that can induce feelings of emotional exhaustion, lack of personal achievement, and even a decreased sense of empathy toward patients, sometimes referred to as compassion fatigue.

Recognizing the possible impact the increased workload could place on clinicians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued several recommendations on how to cope with work-related pressures, including:

• Identify factors that cause stress.
• Ask about employer-supported mental health resources.
• Attend to your own health, including adequate sleep and nutrition.
• Communicate with supportive colleagues.

It’s this last suggestion that can make a remarkable impact on increasing personal and professional satisfaction under any circumstance.

Beneficial Bonding
A sense of mutual understanding among colleagues can help physicians develop resiliency against the effects of burnout. After all, who better understands what a doctor experiences on the job than another doctor? In fact, many hospital programs addressing physician burnout emphasize peer-to-peer initiatives.

But you don’t always need a formal program to encourage empathetic bonds. Relationships between colleagues that form naturally also serve as support networks, even those created through temporary connections.

When locum tenens physicians arrive at an assignment, they typically enter with a philosophy of embracing new experiences and meeting new people.

“I think locums can provide a window of opportunity to clear someone’s mind, see a different place, [and] be reminded of that original mission that we had to serve people,” says Michael Plotnick, MD, FACOG, an obstetrician/gynecologist, who has been practicing more than 35 years and is a member of the All Star Physician Advisory Board.

That positive, service-minded demeanor not only invites an equally cordial greeting from temporary co-workers, but it also can project a fresh light on the setting, patients, and colleagues. By being on site to help care for patients, you are lessening staff caseloads. Your assistance offers colleagues a bit of a respite, or at least frees up some time they can use to extend patient interactions, attend to other duties, or log fewer overtime hours. In a sense, this support doubles as a gesture of professional camaraderie.

Another supportive act is to serve as a sounding board for other doctors, whether in a consultative role on cases or as a fellow physician who has experienced similar circumstances of the job. Mental health specialists endorse the intrinsic value of co-workers checking in with one another. Even when done casually, this approach can solicit sincere responses and foster stronger relationships. These interactions also are moments to share joy, humor, and life philosophies. In other words, laying the foundation for professional relationships and personal friendships.

“Through locum tenens, I have built friendships that continue even after my assignments have ended…. I’ve enjoyed the extended group of friends I’ve gained,” says John Morrissey, MD, a pulmonology and critical care specialist, who has accepted several locum tenens contracts with All Star Healthcare Solutions.

As long as the impact of physician burnout remains a concern, one cannot undervalue the mental health benefit of peer support and camaraderie among physicians, be they full-time employees or short-term colleagues with whom they form long-term friendships.

If you would like to learn more about the many benefits of locum tenens practice, call an All Star consultant at 800-928-0229, or contact us online today.

by Jonny Hale

What to Know About Locum Tenens Before Retiring

If you are excited about retirement kicking off in the not-too-distant future, then you probably have spent the past several decades caring for people at their most vulnerable. Undoubtedly, you have passed along your knowledge and experiences to younger physicians and/or advanced practice providers. And most likely, you have clocked in more hours attending meetings and fulfilling administrative duties than you care to recall. But what if you are not entirely ready to give up your stethoscope just yet?

You could continue to work full time in your current position until retirement. You could arrange with your employer to scale back hours and duties. Or you could try working locum tenens. Temporary positions empower providers to explore various clinical environments and community locations, and exercise more say-so over scheduling. The alternative practice style enables experienced providers to semi-retire, or strike a more flexible balance between professional and personal goals.

Before you pack your bags and head off into semi-retirement as a locum tenens professional, there are a few elements to prepare for first.

Choose a Reputable Staffing Agency
Providers have their choice of staffing companies that will seek to place them with healthcare organizations in need of their skills and experience to care for their patients. However, not all staffing companies are the same. All Star Healthcare Solutions is a member of the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO), which signifies an agreement to abide by the industry’s best practices and standards, and we pride ourselves on delivering “Red Carpet” Service, which includes transparent and responsive communication. Our consultants and business partners are committed to being knowledgeable about the jobs presented and are available to answer your questions. We care about your personal interests and goals, too, and will assist you on each step of your All Star journey.

Prepare for Vetting
All Star credentials all providers before finalizing the details of their locum tenens jobs. This process entails verifying medical school and training, professional background, licenses, board certifications, and more. However, our credentialing professionals will guide you along the way. An added benefit is that much of the upfront input can then be used to speed up the hospital privileging process for the upcoming temporary position.

Apply for Licenses
Even if you do not plan on transitioning to locum tenens work for months to come, it’s not too early to apply for licenses if you hope to seek opportunities out of state. All Star’s licensing specialists are well versed with each state’s medical board specifics and the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact qualifications. They will answer your questions and keep the momentum rolling so, when the time comes that you would like to head out to your short- or long-term job, licensure is a done deal.

Considering Contracts
While credentialing and licensing are underway, start thinking about what type of assignments you would prefer. Factors to weigh include location, facility type and size, shift and call duty, as well as patient population and clinical support. These details, along with any other criteria you deem essential, will help your All Star consultant pinpoint opportunities that match your experience and goals. When jobs are presented for your consideration, it is your choice whether you grant permission to have your particulars submitted to the facility.

Ready for Departure
After interviewing with a facility representative and accepting a contract, it is time to get ready for your locum tenens experience. All Star arranges the housing and travel plans for you. Also, your consultant will brief you on what to expect during orientation. Plus, they check in with you throughout the assignment, including a wrap-up before finding the next position.

Semi Schedule
One of the reasons locum tenens fits so well into semi-retirement is that providers retain control over the length and frequency of contracts. While some people may wish to work longer assignments, others might only want to be on duty a few days at a time. The same can be said for time off between locum jobs. Breaks can be as long or short as you like, so you can benefit from a more relaxed lifestyle, working the hours you choose, and keeping clinical skills current.

If you would like to learn more about how locum tenens opportunities can fit into your semi-retirement, call an All Star consultant at 800-928-0229, or contact us online today.

by Jonny Hale

4 Benefits of Working Locum Tenens in Other States

Traveling out of state to work locum tenens offers healthcare professionals a unique perspective. You become a temporary resident of your assignment community, which presents an awesome opportunity to experience a location on a more genuine level than afforded the typical business traveler or vacationer. Out-of-state contracts grant physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and certified registered nurse anesthetists an extraordinary glimpse into the diversity of American life, as well as the chance to enhance their understanding of healthcare across the country. Indeed, there are many personal and professional benefits to going out of state for locum tenens practice.

1. Environmental Exploration
From the beaches to the mountains, rivers, lakes, plains, and deserts, there are so many types of terrains throughout the country. Accepting a contract in another state could introduce you to the wonders of different geographies and associated activities. Ski the Rockies in the West or the Green Mountains in the Northeast. Fish the Great Lakes or the Gulf of Mexico. Hike trails in the Pacific Northwest or Mid-Atlantic region. There is so much to see and do outdoors all year round.

2. Cultural Immersion
Every town, big and small, has a unique personality, and by living in it for several days to several weeks or months, you have an invitation to see its interesting quirks and hidden treasures. Individuals on locum tenens jobs have the luxury to hear how co-workers and residents feel about their community, and get insider tips on what to do and see around town. Ask about what’s popular in the area. What landmarks are nearby? Is there a quaint (or infamous) local lore?

Different areas of the country also are home to various population enclaves, where cultural influences are celebrated. A short- or long-term contract out of state is a chance to experience various heritage and cultural traditions. From attending festivals, to shopping in ethnic neighborhoods, to appreciating local art, these types of experiences add personal value to an assignment.

3. Taste of Region
Whether you are an amateur chef or prefer to let someone else do the cooking, living in a new community serves up a menu of regional fare. For example, check out the varying flavor palate of barbecue sauces between North Carolina, Kansas, and Texas. Louisiana Creole ingredients stir up one type of flavor profile, whereas the Scandinavian influence evident in the Upper Midwest is a whole other type of dish. If you are an adventurous gastronome, ask around for restaurant referrals, especially to locally owned eateries. If you feel like exercising your culinary skills, visit farmers’ markets or interesting grocers for local ingredients.

4. Understand Regional Healthcare
Out-of-state locum tenens positions present a new view of healthcare, too. You will be introduced to peers who may approach cases from a different point of view, and patients’ responses may vary from what you are used to receiving at home. These assignments will allow you to witness how regional and cultural influences affect healthcare, from common conditions to cultural beliefs regarding family member involvement or end-of-life care, for example. Each locums contract in a new location can be viewed as an opportunity to broaden your experiences and incorporate the best of them into your skill set, thusly, further preparing you for the next job.

Preparing to Go Out of State
Before you can practice in another state, you must first secure a license from that state’s licensing board. All Star Healthcare Solutions has a team dedicated to assisting providers with the licensure process.

Participating in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) also can cut down on the time it takes to complete licensure. Eligible physicians whose home state is one of the IMLC member states can apply for licensure through the Compact instead of each individual board. Each state board remains the issuer; the process is just streamlined and tends to progress at a faster pace.

If you have an inkling for travel, a personal penchant to learn about American communities, and a desire for professional exploration, contact an All Star consultant today to get started on your locum tenens journey— call 800-928-0229, or contact us online.

by Jonny Hale