Locuming

[Sentinel]

Has anyone tried locuming as a resident?

would like to hear your experience on this matter. Good vs bad things about locum jobs?

any info would be appreciated!

 

[chinaski]

Only reason to do it is for the money and the relative flexibility. It's not a career-building move; it's more about filling jobs that can't otherwise be covered or recruited to. As such, they are often not particularly desirable positions (e.g. after hours shifts, ED), but given that you're there to fill in a place for money, rather than to learn stuff or be mentored, it's to be expected.

You may find there are limited options if you are just a PGY2 - many of the locum agencies have more slots open for doctors with more seniority and experience.

 

[Season]

There were a few in the year ahead who are doing it as a way to take a year off during PGY3. Most people are doing it for a few months with the intention of travelling for a few months. I also came across someone who is doing a masters full time and studying for the surgical entrance exam. She is using locuming to support herself.

I did have a friend who attempted to do some locuming as a PGY2, the work is pretty limited, but does exist if you're willing to go to whoop whoop.