In this episode of Let's Locums, hosts Mark and Allison Royer, both ENT surgeons and founders of specialtylocums.com, discuss their unique journey in the locum tenens industry. They share insights from their personal experiences, the challenges they faced while balancing family life and medical careers, and the benefits of locum tenens in achieving a flexible and rewarding medical practice. The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding the right locum's position and how it can lead to a fulfilling professional and personal life.

In this episode of Let's Locums, Mark Royer explores the history and evolution of locum tenens medicine, tracing its roots from ancient practices to modern-day applications. He discusses the pivotal moments that shaped the field, including the establishment of the Utah Medical Association's Locum-Tenants Program in 1979, and highlights the significant impact of technology on the locum tenens landscape. Royer emphasizes the importance of locum tenens in addressing healthcare provider shortages and the growing demand for flexibility in the medical profession, while also paying tribute to pioneers like Dr. Alan Cronhaus.

Takeaways

Locum tenens is a Latin term meaning to hold a place.
The practice of temporary medical staffing has ancient roots.
The circuit rider physician model was popular in the 19th century.
The Utah Medical Association's program in 1979 was pivotal.
Technology has streamlined the locum tenens process significantly.
Over 50,000 physicians work locum assignments annually in the US.
Locum tenens provides flexibility and helps prevent burnout.
It plays a crucial role in underserved and rural healthcare.
Dr. Alan Cronhaus is a key figure in locum tenens history.
The future of locum tenens is bright with ongoing advancements.

Introduction to "Let's Locums", Dr. Mark Royer, an ENT surgeon and locum tenens physician, addresses the growing crisis of stress, burnout, and dissatisfaction plaguing the medical profession. Against the backdrop of a worsening physician shortage and increasing patient dissatisfaction, Dr. Royer introduces locum tenens as a potential solution—a flexible career path that offers opportunities to alleviate burnout, provide care to underserved communities, and regain work-life balance. Joined by his co-host, Dr. Allison Royer, a trailblazer in the locum tenens field, they preview upcoming topics, including the origins of locum tenens, its practical applications, and tips for maximizing its benefits. From travel hacking to retirement planning, this episode sets the stage for a candid exploration of whether locum tenens can be a lifeline for physicians and communities alike.