LocumLife - June 2008 - (Page 9)

THE BENEFITS… ● Test out different practice settings ● Experience a variety of geographic locales ● Be exposed to different clinical techniques and procedures ● Receive good compensation ● Develop a nationwide network of colleagues and delivery rooms, a triage unit, a single operating room, and an approximately 25-bed retirement community.” One challenge Dr. Mitchell faced was a language barrier. “Almost all the patients were of Mexican descent, and about half spoke only Spanish. I do not speak Spanish, but thanks to a few language DVDs, I was able handle some rudimentary conversation. Fortunately, my medical assistant was happy to interpret, and the patients were comfortable with that. In fact, the patients seemed delighted with our care, which was probably an improvement over what they were used to. About 60% of the patients came in for OB services, and most were younger than average, in their late teens or early 20s. But they were in good health, and the only recurrent problem we saw was a higher incidence of gestational diabetes, a condition common in the Hispanic population.” When he was not providing services, Dr. Mitchell explored his new surroundings, often alongside his colleagues. “We frequently got together outside of work. There was a national forest nearby, as well as several casinos. They also took me across the border for some great Mexican food and karaoke bars.” Though that contract was one of his favorites, Dr. Mitchell could not be happier with his entire locum tenens career thus far. “Locum tenens medicine has been very good to me. I had originally planned to do this for just 2 or 3 years, but after seeing all the advantages, I am not ready to give it up. As a temporary physician, I have more time off and receive better compensation than I would at most permanent positions.” What has made his experience so fulfilling, says Dr. Mitchell, is his own flexibility. “I try to plan out my schedule a few months in advance, but I do not let myself worry when that is not possible. As long as I roll with the punches, knowing that something new is always coming my way, everything works out wonderfully.” LL Lisa Daggett is a freelance writer based in Saugerties, New York. Circle Career Card No. 602 JUNE 2008 LocumLife 9 http://locumtenens.comphealth.com http://locumtenens.comphealth.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of LocumLife - June 2008

LocumLife - June 2008 Editorial Contents From Nalto Survey Says Last Minute Luxury Residency Corner Antarctica Bound 2008 Locum Tenens of the Year Awards Career Center Opportunities Direct Advertisers' Index Recruiters of the Year Showcase Contest Rules Destinations La Vita Locum

LocumLife - June 2008

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