Locum tenens, Latin for "to hold the place of," refers to temporary healthcare providers who fill in for other doctors on a short-term basis. This vital role ensures that patients receive uninterrupted, often life-saving care. Celebrated annually from August 12-16, National Locum Tenens Week shines a well-deserved spotlight on these dedicated professionals. Locum tenens practitioners make an extraordinary difference every day, particularly crucial in rural and underserved areas where access to healthcare is often limited.
These figures illustrate their significant influence and wide-reaching impact:
• More than 52,000 physicians (over 5% of all doctors) work locum tenens assignments every year.
• 90% of US healthcare facilities use locum tenens providers annually.
• Every year, locum tenens providers care for an estimated 7.5 million Americans.
Caliber believes that provider-centric staffing leads to purpose-driven healthcare. By focusing on the needs and well-being of our locum providers, they receive the necessary support to improve healthcare outcomes across the country.
A facility’s ability to attract and retain skilled clinical professionals determines its efficiency, quality, and reputation. When providers are empowered with resources and connected to enriching locum tenens opportunities, they thrive. Our vision is to ensure that physicians and advanced practice providers have the autonomy, flexibility, and mobility they deserve, ensuring that every patient in America receives outstanding care from high-caliber healthcare providers.
Here's how our provider-centric focus translates into real-world impact:
• Each month, over 275 active Caliber physicians and APPs fill more than 3,000 shifts to bridge critical gaps in care.
• Our dedicated locum providers have cared for 1.31 million patients to date, delivering essential healthcare services across the nation.
• Caliber has served over 55 hospitals and health systems, thanks to our committed providers.
As we celebrate National Locum Tenens Week, we want to reflect on this impact and extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the locum tenens providers who tirelessly serve communities across the nation. Your commitment to step in wherever and whenever you’re needed guarantees that millions of patients receive the care they deserve. Your ability to adapt, your willingness to travel, and your dedication to excellence are what make our healthcare system resilient and responsive.
Thank you for your extraordinary service, for bridging gaps in healthcare, and for making a lasting impact on countless lives. Your efforts remain the cornerstone of our mission to provide outstanding, purpose-driven healthcare for all. Together, we are building a healthier future, one patient at a time.
Are you a physician or an APP who's looking to make an even greater impact? We'd love to connect you with your ideal locum tenens assignment.