What is a Locum Tenens and when do you need one?

Life doesn’t always stick to our schedules—whether it’s a planned vacation, unexpected illness, parental leave, or even a sabbatical. That’s where locum tenens providers come in.

A locum tenens (Latin for “one holding a place”) is a qualified healthcare professional who temporarily steps into your role to keep your practice running smoothly. These providers typically share your specialty and can cover for periods ranging from a few days to several months—most commonly between 30 to 90 days.

Hiring a locum tenens ensures your patients continue to receive consistent, high-quality care during your absence, minimizing disruption for both your team and your patients. Whether you’re facing an unexpected gap in coverage or planning ahead for time off, a locum tenens can relieve the pressure and maintain the flow of your practice.

This Q&A does not constitute legal, accounting, or tax advice and

does not address state or local law.