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What to Know About Working As A Locum Tenens Nurse Practitioner


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There is an increasing demand for nurse practitioner (NP) services throughout the United States. Advanced practice providers like NPs serve as primary and specialty care providers and can work in a variety of settings.

There are numerous opportunities for permanent and locum tenens nurse practitioner positions available because of this high demand.

Benefits of Being a Locum Tenens NP

Locum tenens refers to temporary or short-term employment as a substitute or replacement for an absent worker. These positions are becoming increasingly popular because of the many benefits available.

Travel Opportunities

Nurse practitioners are in demand throughout the country, and many travel nurses take advantage of this growing field. Many nurse practitioners enjoy traveling to different states or even internationally for their locum tenens jobs. The average pay for a locum tenens assignment can be significantly higher, often covering transportation costs and living expenses during travel.

Flexible Schedule

Another benefit of being a locum tenens NP is the ability to set your own schedule. For example, you can choose full-time or part-time jobs and even decide the specific hours you want to work. Some nurse practitioners prefer working 4 days a week while others choose even shorter work weeks.

Patient Care Focus

In many environments, NPs are unable to devote as much time to patient care due to their many other daily responsibilities. A locum tenens nurse practitioner, however, is often able to simply focus on the clinical aspect of their position, allowing them to devote their attention and energy to patient care.

Competitive Pay

Nurse practitioners can expect competitive pay and benefits. Locum tenens job assignments typically pay higher rates than traditional nursing jobs due to the temporary nature of the position.

Why Practices Hire Nurse Practitioners Locum Tenens

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Nurse practitioners are in high demand throughout the country. Hiring locum tenens nurse practitioners often allows practices to fulfill their needs because these opportunities are becoming increasingly more attractive to skilled NPs. By hiring locum tenens NPs, practices also benefit in the following ways.

Staff Satisfaction

When permanent NP roles cannot be filled, locum tenens NPs can help fill gaps and provide additional hours for patient care. These individuals help provide relief for existing staff, reducing stress, burnout, and turnover.

Administrative Benefits

Trying to recruit permanent staff tends to require a significant amount of time and energy. The process can be costly, as well. By hiring locum tenens staff, practice managers can dedicate more time to administrative duties, improving productivity and promoting smoother day-to-day operations.

Patient Hours and Outcomes

Hiring locum tenens NPs can increase patient hours thanks to flexible schedules, allowing more patients to be seen without needing to wait for their primary physician or provider. This increase in availability not only improves patient satisfaction but also reduces stress on other staff members.

With more flexible schedules, increased patient hours, lower stress levels, and higher staff morale, locum tenens NPs also contribute to improved patient outcomes, resulting in a more productive and positive work environment.

Looking for a Locum Tenens Nurse Practitioner Role?

Pinnacle Health Group can help. Get in touch with our team today to find exciting locum tenens opportunities in your field.

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