The Freedom of Locums: Crafting Your Own Adventure

In the ever-evolving landscape of emergency medicine, the choice to embrace a locum tenens career feels like a leap into the unknown. However, for those who venture into this realm, the rewards can be as vast as the Australian Outback.

As a proud locum physician, I have experienced firsthand the distinct advantages that come with this flexible lifestyle—chief among them, the ability to control my own time.

This past year, I was able to take five glorious weeks off and dive below the equator to Australia for my daughter’s wedding.

Yes, you read that right—five weeks!

While many of you were navigating the chaos of daily shifts, I was basking in the sun, surrounded by family and friends in places that I did not know existed. 

Controlling your own schedule is one of the most compelling reasons to consider locum tenens work. It’s not just about filling shifts; it’s about reclaiming your life.

During my time down under, I had the chance to indulge in the local culture, including dining at a chic restaurant in Sydney. To my delightful surprise, the evening was made even more special when I discovered that our Locum Section’s chairwoman, Dr. Goldsmith, has a relative who plays jazz there.

As I look out over the Sydney Harbor, I cannot help but reflect on how ACEP and locums not only allows me to travel but also connects me with unexpected serendipities and personal networks across the globe.

While away I read a couple of books, one that I would like to mention that captured my attention was “The Locum Revolution” by Ali Chaudhary, MD. It’s an insightful exploration of the locum lifestyle, filled with anecdotes and practical wisdom that can transform the way we think about our careers in medicine.

I recommend it. He’s much more articulate than I am.

In conclusion, being a locum physician is more than just a job; it’s much more than a lifestyle, it is a style of living.

Niki Thran, MD, FACEP
President of VT ACEP
Chair-elect Locums Section