Finding the Right Fit: 10 Tips for Hiring Locum Tenens Physicians

Hiring locum tenens physicians is a strategic move for healthcare facilities facing staffing gaps. However, simply filling a position isn't enough; finding the right fit is crucial for ensuring quality patient care and seamless integration. Here are 10 essential tips to guide your locum tenens hiring process:

1. Define Your Specific Needs Clearly:

• Specialty and Subspecialty: Precisely identify the required specialty and any subspecialty expertise.
• Duration of Assignment: Determine the length of the locum assignment (short-term, long-term, or per diem).
• Specific Skills and Experience: Outline any specific skills, procedures, or patient population experience needed.
• Facility Culture: Consider the cultural fit of the physician with your facility's environment and values.

2. Leverage Reputable Staffing Agencies or Platforms (Like DirectShifts):

• Agency Expertise: If using an agency, choose one with a strong track record and expertise in your required specialty.
• DirectShifts Advantage: Platforms like DirectShifts provide direct connections, reducing costs and increasing transparency.
• Multiple Sources: Utilize a combination of agencies and platforms to broaden your search.

3. Conduct Thorough Credentialing and Verification:

• Primary Source Verification: Verify all credentials directly with primary sources (medical boards, educational institutions).
• Malpractice History: Review the physician's malpractice history and ensure adequate coverage.
• Background Checks: Conduct comprehensive background checks to ensure suitability.
• DirectShifts Verification Aid: DirectShifts aids in this process by keeping credentialing information organized.

4. Conduct Comprehensive Interviews:

• Behavioral Questions: Use behavioral questions to assess the physician's clinical judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Scenario-Based Questions: Present clinical scenarios to evaluate the physician's decision-making process.
• Facility-Specific Questions: Ask questions related to your facility's policies, procedures, and patient population.
• Cultural Fit Questions: Ask questions that will help you understand if the physician will fit in with your team.

5. Check References Carefully:

• Previous Employers: Contact previous employers and colleagues to gather feedback on the physician's performance.
• Clinical Skills and Communication: Focus on assessing the physician's clinical skills, communication abilities, and professionalism.
• Specific Examples: Ask for specific examples of the physician's performance and interactions.

6. Assess Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

• Clear Communication: Ensure the physician can communicate effectively with patients, staff, and other healthcare professionals.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Evaluate the physician's ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Empathy and Compassion: Assess the physician's ability to demonstrate empathy and compassion in patient interactions.

7. Ensure a Smooth Onboarding Process:

• Comprehensive Orientation: Provide a thorough orientation to your facility's policies, procedures, and EHR system.
• Introduction to Staff: Facilitate introductions to key staff members and departments.
• Access to Resources: Ensure the physician has access to necessary resources, such as medical records and equipment.

8. Establish Clear Expectations and Communication:

• Detailed Job Description: Provide a detailed job description outlining the scope of work and responsibilities.
• Communication Protocols: Establish clear communication protocols and expectations for regular updates.
• Performance Feedback: Implement a system for providing and receiving performance feedback.

9. Monitor Performance and Gather Feedback:

• Regular Check-Ins: Conduct regular check-ins with the locum physician to address any concerns or questions.
• Patient Feedback: Solicit patient feedback on the physician's care.
• Staff Feedback: Gather feedback from staff members who work with the locum physician.

10. Build Long-Term Relationships:

• Positive Experience: Strive to create a positive experience for locum physicians, fostering long-term relationships.
• Referral Network: Build a network of trusted locum physicians who can refer other qualified professionals.
• DirectShifts for Relationship Building: DirectShifts facilitates direct communication, which aids in relationship building.

By following these tips, healthcare facilities can effectively hire locum tenens physicians who are the right fit for their needs, ensuring quality patient care and a smooth integration process.