How to pick up locum shifts in a competitive market

Scrolling through Reddit at the start of 2024, we saw multiple threads from Australian doctors wondering what was happening with the locum job market–which had indeed taken a dip, especially for junior doctors. Fortunately, as we progress through the year, the market shows signs of recovery.

After becoming accustomed to having an array of shifts available, the scarcity of shifts could seem daunting when the market fluctuates. We hope the market remains strong, but it is always good to be prepared for the ups (and the downs). To help you prepare to navigate a competitive environment, we've compiled advice in this article about how to enhance your ability to secure locum shifts.

Several factors contribute to a tight locum market:

• Economic constraints: Budget cuts or financial constraints within healthcare systems can reduce demand for locum tenens, as institutions may attempt to reduce operational costs.

• Increased permanent hiring: Hospitals and clinics may focus on increasing their permanent staff to reduce reliance on locum tenens, which can be more expensive in the long run.

• Seasonal variations: Certain times of the year, like holiday seasons or summer months, might see a decrease in elective procedures and lower patient turnout, reducing the need for additional staffing.

• Regulatory changes: New regulations or changes in healthcare policies can impact staffing needs. For instance, if new laws limit the number of hours a doctor can work, this could reduce the need for locum tenens. Decreased rates or increased rates could also lead to scarcity. Increased rates heat up competition, or decreased rates mean roles are not paying what was expected, creating fewer placements at your preferred rate.

• Technological advancements: As telemedicine and other healthcare technologies become more integrated, the need for physical staffing in certain specialties may decrease, with more healthcare professionals choosing to work remotely. Likewise, patients may choose to be seen remotely.

• Global events: Pandemics, economic downturns, or other significant global events can disrupt healthcare operations and affect the demand for locum tenens differently, depending on the nature of the event.

Strategies to enhance your chances

1. Stay informed about market trends

Understanding market trends and which specialties and locations are in demand can help you align your career accordingly. Stay informed through industry news, reports, and communication with professionals in the field.

2. Proactive communication with agencies

If you don't have a locum agency, a great first step would be registering with one. As Australasia's largest medical recruitment agency, Medrecruit will simplify the job search process, offering a free career-management service for doctors. We have thousands of jobs on the books, including those that haven't yet reached the market.

When it comes to choosing an agency, Dr Couch says: "Take your time finding the right agency and person to work with." If you're already working with a locum agency, engage actively. Notify them of your availability and eagerness to pick up shifts.

Dr Chen says: "Clearly communicate with the team your availability, and they will work with you to find the best opportunity possible that suits your lifestyle. Also, keep in mind you can always learn something regardless of the nature of the shift – if you are locuming in a new environment, use it as an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, and this will make you a better clinician in general."

3. Be flexible with locations and shifts

Flexibility is a significant asset in locuming. Be open to assignments in less popular locations or during less desirable shifts. Rural or remote areas often struggle more to find medical staff and thus may offer more opportunities. Dr RJ says on locuming rurally "Locum work is certainly worth considering; many areas are desperately short of doctors, but do your homework first to ensure that your skill set matches the environment that you have chosen!" Likewise, being willing to work nights, weekends, or holidays can make you a more attractive candidate to employers who need to fill these challenging slots. It's important to maintain a healthy work-life balance by taking days off between shifts. We collaborate with our doctors to design thoughtful placement schedules that not only secure the work you desire but also ensure you have necessary downtime. Dr Diana Yuen Kwun Ng says "They were good at giving us a few days off at a time during the current job that we have to make sure that we get enough time for work-life balance."

Dr Smith says: "Probably the most important thing is to work out what the scope of a job is before you take it - I have done jobs where I am the solo doctor in the hospital overnight, which I knew what I was getting into, but I think for some people could be a surprise. Medrecruit is very forthcoming with information in this respect."

4. Ensure your CV and references are up to date

In a competitive locum market, optimising your CV and references is important. Ensure your CV is concise yet comprehensive, highlighting your specialties, certifications, and relevant experiences. Tailor it to reflect the specific needs of your applying positions. Include measurable achievements and use professional terminology. For references, choose recent supervisors who can vouch for your clinical skills and work ethic. Ensure their contact details are up-to-date and inform them ahead of time about potential inquiries. This preparation ensures quick verification, giving you an edge by making you a prompt and attractive candidate for immediate placements.

Dr Das says: "I think for other doctors; it is a bit daunting to conduct locuming because of the fear of the unknown. However, I do have to say Medrecruit has made it easier once I sent all the required documentation and referees."

5. Leverage technology

Most locum agencies and job search sites offer the option to set up job alerts. Utilise job alert features on medical job boards and agency websites. Customise alerts to notify you immediately of opportunities that match your criteria. Quick applications are important in a competitive market, and technology can give you an edge by ensuring you're one of the first to respond. Agencies often send out the hottest new jobs via email, so ensure you have your marketing preferences turned on and receive emails.

6. Enhance your qualifications

Consider expanding your qualifications or certifications to make yourself eligible for a broader range of roles. For instance, acquiring skills in a high-demand specialty or completing a course in emergency medicine can open up new opportunities and make you more appealing to employers.

7. Cultivate an excellent professional reputation

A good reputation travels fast in the medical community. Be professional, punctual, and competent in all your locum roles. Positive feedback from one facility can lead to recommendations to others, helping you secure more positions purely through word of mouth.

Picking up locum shifts in a competitive market is challenging but possible. By strategically positioning yourself through networking, flexibility, and proactive engagement, you can increase your chances of finding rewarding locum work. Remember, each shift is not just a job but an opportunity to grow your skills, expand your professional network, and significantly impact where it's most needed.