LocumLife - August 2008 - (Page 21)

The Market ● There are an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 urgent care centers in the U.S. and over 20,000 physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners practicing in this specialty. ● Urgent care centers are usually located in communities with a population of 20,000 or more. ● These facilities are requesting longer-term, fulltime coverage as well as weekend moonlighting services. ● Urgent care physicians of all career stages practice locum tenens, and can expect to earn between $65/hour to $90/hour, on average, says one industry expert. personalized care. When they see you, they want to know you are paying attention to—and understanding—them. So, even if you discover that there is nothing for them to be worried about, explain in clear and friendly language what is needed and what to do afterward, and hope to have a laugh before they leave. This approach to people will make you successful—whether you are a doctor or not.” Dr. Bowers enjoys this career alternative because of the scheduling freedom it gives him. “My kids are old enough now that I frequently need to be free from call for a day or two at a time. So at least for the near future, I will continue accepting contracts until I decide to work for myself or do something completely different outside of medicine.” KEEPING AN OPEN MIND “I took up locum tenens when I began practicing in 1987, and it has been an intermittent part of my career ever since,” says Barry Kaler, DO, a family practice specialist with 11 years experience in primary care and occupational medicine. “I am open to and enjoy many situations, but urgent care is absolutely my favorite.” Throughout his time as a physician, Dr. Kaler has completed commercial, government, and independent contracts set in a variety of environments. “Initially, I provided some part-time coverage at different facilities, practicing primary care and urgent care,” he recalls. “Then, I took an opportunity with a company that staffed emergency departments and an urgent care center near where I live in the Southeast. The urgent care facility did very well, so the hospital decided to take it over and open up other centers. That particular contract turned into a permanent job for about 10 years.” » AUGUST 2008 Circle Career Card No. 608 LocumLife 21 http://www.mdainc.com http://www.mdainc.com

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

LocumLife - August 2008 Insights Editorial Contents From Nalto Stat! Survey Says Resources Last-Minute Luxury Residency Corner Prescribed Advice Urgent Care Career Center Advertisers' Index Opportunities Direct Destinations Passport Contest Rules Anyone's Guess La Vita Locum

LocumLife - August 2008

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