The trend of physicians opting for locum tenens is on the rise, with approximately 7%, or 50,000 physicians, having worked at least one locum tenens assignment in the past year, according to CHG Healthcare’s 2023 State of Locum Tenens Report.

This represents an 88% increase in physicians taking locum tenens assignments since 2015, according to the report.

Among physicians working locum tenens, 43% currently work full time, up from 30% in 2019.

Top reasons for healthcare organizations to continue using locum tenens include maintaining access to care for patients and filling temporarily vacant positions when clinicians are on family leave or vacation.

Meanwhile, 59% of physicians with locum tenens experience reported taking their first assignment within 10 years of completing their medical training. The report noted that despite rising rates of physicians seeking locum tenens engagements earlier in their careers for work/life balance, the largest segment of the current locum tenens workforce is mid- to late-career physicians over age 45.

Another important finding: More organizations are now using locum tenens to meet rising patient demand during peak periods, such as influenza season.

Overall, 71% of physicians reported having a very positive or somewhat positive impression of locum tenens.

Additionally, 79% of administration staff and 76% of physician colleagues stated they accepted locums physicians, with 16% and 13% of those groups embracing the model.

“Influential association and healthcare organization leaders understand the value of a strategic, proactive approach to temporary staffing and flexibility, especially when partnered with a strong and caring staffing partner,” CHG Healthcare CEO Scott Beck said. “Locum tenens provide a crucial safety net for continuing patient access to care while also giving physicians facing burnout a flexible way to continue practicing.”

CHG defines locum tenens, or locums, as the practice of physicians, PAs and NPs taking temporary jobs in healthcare facilities with staffing needs. Locums allow permanent staff to take vacations or leaves, fill gaps in coverage or provide care in areas unable to recruit permanent staff.