The benefits of locuming over the festive season

The festive season has arrived and Christmas is just around the corner. The busiest and most social time of the year can be a juggling act for doctors.

Working as a doctor can be stressful at the best of times, and with the silly season approaching, you may be wondering whether or not you should take on locum work. If you are on the fence, here are our top reasons why embracing the festive spirit and locuming in the holidays could be highly rewarding.

1/ More opportunities available to you

With fewer doctors available or willing to work during the festive season, those who do choose to locum often face less competition for roles. This can be an excellent opportunity for younger doctors or those looking to gain experience in different clinical settings.

This year we've seen an increase in vacancies across hospitals and clinics throughout Australia and New Zealand. This puts the ball in your court - you can pick and choose from the best rates and locations. You'll have a chance to work on a different unit or alongside a range of different specialists - they say variety is the spice of life.

2/ Higher rates and earning potential

Rates go up at this time of year as many doctors go on leave, and hospitals and clinics bring in locums to cover. We're seeing some amazing Christmas and New Year's rates, and we can negotiate the best rates with the hospitals. Travel and accommodation are covered in most locum roles, and travel around this time of year goes up in price, so you'll be saving even more money on expenses.

3/ Not all heroes wear capes

The festive season can be a critical time for healthcare facilities, especially in areas like emergency medicine. By choosing to locum during this time, doctors play a vital role in supporting healthcare systems when they are most needed, providing care to patients and relief to regular staff.

Working over the holidays will gain you big brownie points, and you'll be looking like a hero to your colleagues (and patients). If you put your hand up to help out a hospital or clinic at this busy time of year, they'll be more likely to get in touch with you next time they're in need. Everyone will be so appreciative of your help, and it won't be quickly forgotten - it's a great opportunity for some career gains.

4/ Spread the Christmas cheer

You'll be surrounded by good vibes and Christmas cheer. Everyone is a little more relaxed at this time of year - stress levels come down, and overall hospitals and clinics will be quieter than usual. Spend your day with those in need and build some good relationships at the same time.

5/ Flexible scheduling

Locuming during the festive season allows for flexible scheduling. Doctors can choose short-term assignments or even part-time hours, which means they can still enjoy the festivities with family and friends. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those who wish to balance work with personal commitments during the holidays.

Locuming over the festive season offers a unique blend of financial, professional, and personal benefits. From competitive compensation and flexible scheduling to the opportunity to help where it's most needed, locuming during this period can be a fulfilling choice for many doctors. It’s an opportunity to experience the dynamism of healthcare in a different light while contributing significantly to patient care during the busy holiday season.

If you're thinking about locuming over the holidays and don't know where to start - we can help. There's a need for locum doctors in Australia and New Zealand - get in touch with us today, and we can pull together the best options to suit your wants and needs - and with the highest rates, too!