If you're a physician assistant (PA) looking to expand your career options, enjoy flexibility, and explore diverse clinical settings, transitioning to locum tenens work might be the perfect move for you. Whether you're drawn to the freedom of setting your schedule, the chance to travel, or the opportunity to experience different practice environments, becoming a locum PA can be both rewarding and financially beneficial.

But how do you become a locum physician assistant? Here’s an 8-step guide to help you make the switch.

1. Understand What a Locum Tenens PA Does

A locum tenens physician assistant is a PA who works temporary assignments ("locums") to cover staffing gaps at hospitals, health systems, and clinics. Assignments can range from a few days to several months, depending on the needs of the facility and your availability.

As a locum PA, you might fill in for:

• Providers on vacation or leave
• Facilities experiencing seasonal demand
• Practices expanding services

This role allows you to choose assignments that align with your personal and professional goals while maintaining flexibility.

2. Assess If Locum Work Fits Your Career Goals

Before diving into the locum lifestyle, ask yourself:

• Do I value flexibility and variety over routine?
• Am I comfortable adapting to new teams and settings frequently?
• Do I have the ability to travel for assignments?
• Am I organized and self-sufficient?

If you answered "yes" to these questions, locum tenens work may be a good fit for you.

3. Ensure You Meet the Basic Requirements

To work as a locum PA, you’ll need to ensure your credentials and paperwork are in order. Literally.

• Education: Graduate from an accredited PA program.
• Certification: Maintain certification through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
• State Licensure: Have an active state license or be prepared to apply for licensure in multiple states where you want to work.
• DEA License: Ensure you have an up-to-date DEA registration if you’ll be prescribing controlled substances.
• Malpractice Insurance: Many locum tenens agencies provide coverage, but it’s good to explore your options, especially if you're trying to pursue opportunities without help.

4. Partner with a Reputable Locum Tenens Agency

Although you can try to secure a locum position solo, a locum tenens agency acts as your career partner, helping you find assignments, navigate logistics, and handle credentialing. The right agency will:

• Match assignments to your skillset and preferences
• Handle paperwork, contracts, and licensing support
• Coordinate travel and housing logistics
• Provide competitive compensation and benefits

Pro Tip: Choose an agency with experience placing PAs in locum roles to ensure they understand your specific needs. For example, Caliber is structured with specialty-specific teams so that each recruiter who works with our providers has deep industry knowledge and experience with the nuances of their field.

5. Prepare a Strong CV/Resume

Highlight your experience, skills, and clinical competencies in a concise, clear resume. Be sure to include:

• Clinical specialties you’re proficient in (e.g., emergency medicine, surgery, primary care)
• Licenses and certifications
• Experience adapting to new practice settings
• Key achievements and procedures performed

Your CV/resume should demonstrate that you're adaptable, skilled, and ready to jump into new environments seamlessly.

6. Navigate Credentialing and Licensing

Locum tenens work often requires multiple state licenses and hospital privileges. Fortunately, your locum agency can help streamline this process. Be prepared to provide:

• Professional references
• Immunization records
• Background checks
• Up-to-date CV and certifications

Credentialing can take time, so staying organized and proactive will keep things moving smoothly. This is another point for working with a staffing agency; each agency has specialized departments that coordinate all of the paperwork and help make sure that all your documentation is in order and submitted in a timely fashion.

7. Plan for Travel and Logistics

Many locum tenens assignments require travel. Your agency will often cover travel expenses and provide housing. To make travel seamless:

• Keep a pre-packed bag with essentials for assignments
• Stay organized with a travel checklist
• Be flexible with last-minute changes or extensions

This flexibility is part of what makes locum work exciting and dynamic!

8. Start Your First Locum Tenens Assignment

Once everything is in place, you’re ready to begin! For a smooth start:

• Arrive early to get oriented
• Introduce yourself to the team and ask questions
• Stay adaptable and open-minded
• Communicate with your agency for support during the assignment

Remember, every new assignment is a chance to grow, learn, and enhance your skills.

Benefits of Becoming a Locum PA

1. Flexibility: Choose when and where you work.
2. Higher Pay Potential: Locum assignments often come with competitive compensation.
3. Professional Growth: Gain experience in various specialties and settings.
4. Travel Opportunities: Work in different parts of the country.
5. Work-Life Balance: Take breaks between assignments to recharge.

Ready to Take the Leap?

Becoming a locum physician assistant can be a transformative step for your career. Whether you're seeking freedom, variety, or the chance to explore new clinical settings, locum tenens offers endless possibilities.

Start your locum journey by partnering with an agency that understands PAs—and get ready to embrace the flexibility and fulfillment that comes with locum work! Looking for locum tenens opportunities? Connect with Caliber and let us help you take the next step in your career.