Dr Euphemia Floresca: "I locum because I love travelling"

Locum work presents a unique and exciting opportunity for doctors to travel to diverse landscapes of Australia. It's a gateway to adventure, offering the chance to explore different regions while practising medicine.

One of the most appealing aspects of locuming in Australia is its inherent flexibility. You can select short-term positions in various locations, from bustling metropolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne to remote outback communities or coastal towns. This flexibility enables you to design a work schedule that aligns with your travel aspirations, allowing you to experience the country's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty.

We caught up with Dr Euphemia Floresca to learn more about her experience locuming with Medrecruit.

Can you tell me a bit about you and why you became a doctor?

Ever since I was a young child, I have always wanted to become a doctor. It was a special calling that I always had and knew. As I was growing up, there were a lot of TV series about doctors, which all became a hit. I believe these added to my enthusiasm to become one. Thinking of the adrenaline rush and, at the end of the day, how "saving lives" matters and how it can make a difference.

What was your motivator for locuming?

The main reason why I first decided to do some locum work is because I love travelling. I thought this would be a good opportunity to go around Australia and enjoy the diversity. Eventually, it became more for practical reasons as I was trying to save for our first house.

How has locuming enriched your lifestyle in any way?

Locum gave me the freedom to choose the days that I work. I can choose not to work on night shifts. In addition, if I get assigned to a new place, it gives me the opportunity to explore the area and get to know the community. Having a family and a young daughter now, it gives me the opportunity to work less and spend more time with the family without worrying about the income.

Have you had any memorable or crazy experiences when locuming?

I once did locum in a rural area where snake bites are quite common. Something that one definitely does not see often enough here in Sydney.

Has locuming helped you achieve any financial goals?

Yes, definitely. Locuming helped me save for our first house and made my income look good enough for the bank loan. With the interest rates going up, it definitely is a big help.

Would you have any advice for other doctors who are thinking about locuming?

For the young doctors, locuming is a good opportunity to travel around Australia for "free" and test the waters, especially if you have not yet decided which specialty you would want to pursue. It can be a time when you can go on an adventure both on a personal level and career-wise.

At the same time, don't spend all your savings. For those who are not that young anymore, it is a good opportunity to take things slow and easy, to be practical and be in control of your work schedule.