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H.R. 7881 Would Permanently Classify Locum Tenens Providers as Independent Contractors

Choosing to practice as a locum tenens provider, which is currently classified as an independent contractor role, allows physicians and advanced practitioners the freedom to accept temporary contracts that fit into their lives and schedules. That flexibility is what many clinicians appreciate the most about the career alternative, and it’s an aspect that would change according to the proposed Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act bill.

Now, H.R. 7881, “The Healthcare Provider Shortage Minimization Act of 2022,” moves to make the independent contractor distinction for locum tenens providers permanent.

The recently introduced bill in the U.S. House of Representatives seeks to amend the IRS code to clarify the treatment of locum tenens physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) as independent contractors.

Without that designation, locum tenens providers could still be affected if the PRO Act passes. 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, and significantly impact our industry.

Key Facts 

• Approximately 52,000 locum tenens providers care for more than 7.5 million Americans every year, some of whom may not receive care otherwise.
• 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.

In support of the clinicians, facilities, and patients, including those in underserved communities who depend on the staffing services we provide, All Star Healthcare Solutions is asking members of the U.S. House of Representatives to support H.R. 7881.

We invite you to join us, along with the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO), in calling on Congress to endorse and pass H.R. 7881, “The Healthcare Provider Shortage Minimization Act of 2022.”

Here’s how you can make your voice be heard:

• Go to org/action and fill out the form with your home address so the message is sent to your specific Representative.
• Select “Send Email.”

It’s as easy as that. Your participation is greatly appreciated.

To learn more about the benefits of working locum tenens and how the practice alternative helps 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.