LocumLife - May 2008 - (Page 13)

as possible,” comments Ms. Heard.“We try to center her opportunities within driving distance of the events, at least within a few hours.” Sometimes the activities are more family-focused.“I remember one physician whose son was playing college football several states away from his hometown,” recalls Mr. Payne.“The doctor requested a long-term contract near the university because he wanted to be in town to attend home games during the fall. It was very rewarding that we were able to arrange that for both father and son.” EXPLORING HER OPTIONS Rachal David, MD, had her heart set on hitting the slopes this past winter, so when the opportunity to practice in the Pacific Northwest came her way, the family medicine specialist seized it. “It was wonderful to be able to get in some skiing on my days off, but I was also able to take other weekend excursions, including visiting some parks featuring amazing geological formations,” she says. “I like to ask the permanent staff about interesting sites in the area, and really enjoy having the freedom to explore like that.” Dr. David is among an expanding segment of locum tenens physicians who are not necessarily prepared to commit to a permanent practice right after residency. Instead, she opted to weigh her options by agreeing to locum tenens opportunities since October, exclusively through Delta Locum Tenens, a staffing agency located in Dallas, Texas. “I wanted to travel around and try out different groups or healthcare systems before I chose a practice. “Plus, I like the fact that locum tenens opportunities couple versatility with scheduling,” she adds. “I am lucky that I am able to practice in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, or private practice clinic.” Currently, she is fulfilling a hospitalist contract in her home state on the East Coast. “I love springtime around here because I can go to the beach,” she admits. “I would even like to try sailing while I am here.” Because Dr. David rotates between being on duty 7 days and then off for 7 days, her schedule has enough flexibility to fit in her many goals, such as spending time with her boyfriend, Josh. “He lives in another state, so I try to fly out as often as possible.” Next, Dr. David would like to experience the Rocky Mountain region, which would bring her much closer to Josh. But he is not the only motivation behind her request. She explains, “All the seasons out there are gorgeous, and there are so many outdoor activities in the summer and fall. Topping my must-do list is whitewater rafting.” Perhaps the biggest obstacle standing between her and that dream opportunity is licensure. Currently, she only holds two state licenses, and would have to obtain another in order to accept such a position. Because licenses are granted on a state-by-state basis—except for many federally operated facilities—the processing time varies. Some Circle Career Card No. 602 MAY 2008 LocumLife 13 http://locumtenens.comphealth.com

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LocumLife - May 2008

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