LocumLife - May 2008 - (Page 15)

During the winter, he prefers the southern part of the state for its mild temperatures. “I am not a cold-weather person, and neither is Denise. We are much happier when the thermometer reads in the 70s and 80s at the beach.” The mobile lifestyle has become so ingrained in who he is that Mr. Kennedy foresees wrapping up his career in this manner. “I would like to continue agreeing to locum tenens opportunities until I am ready for retirement. Even though my wife knows I can be gone for weeks at a time, it works for us.” PLAN, PLAN, PLAN If you are considering scheduling locum tenens opportunities around seasonal shifts, most would agree the first step is to plan ahead. “This is especially important for obtaining the appropriate licenses,” cautions Mr. Payne. “That is probably the biggest hurdle because it could take anywhere from 3 to 12 months.” “I am an amateur photographer and love to take pictures of grapes and vineyards.” —Kevin Kennedy, RT(T) “It also helps to return your paperwork on time,” suggests Ms. Heard. “Most agencies will do much of the legwork for you, but the process moves faster when both parties work together.” Another factor to consider is the availability of opportunities, particularly if the locale is extremely popular. Not only is it advisable to give your locum tenens staffing representative plenty of notice, but also approach the idea with a sense of compromise. “Be realistic in your goals,” says Ms. Heard. “For example, if you wish to go to Hawaii, you might consider accepting a contract in the off season or be willing to negotiate your pay rate.” Mr. Payne adds, “The more specific or exotic the location, the more time we typically need to make an appropriate match. “But once you are there, make the most of the situation— carpe diem! Do not get so caught up in the day-to-day activities that you miss out on experiencing the reasons why you were attracted to the area at first. Get out there and explore,” he concludes. “You may even want to tack on extra days before or after a contract to extend the experience a bit longer.” LL Anne Baye Ericksen is a freelance writer based in Simi Valley, California. MAY 2008 Circle Career Card No. 611 LocumLife 15 http://www.StaffCare.com http://www.StaffCare.com

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LocumLife - May 2008 Insights Editorial Contents From NALTO Stat! Survey Says Resources Last-Minute Luxury Following the Seasons Neurology Career Centers Advertiser Index Opportunities Direct Destinations On Location Contest Rules Anyone's Guess La Vita Locum

LocumLife - May 2008

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