Navigating the Path to a Stress-Free Locum Lifestyle

Switching to locum relief work can act as a tonic against the strains that come with traditional permanent veterinary roles, providing veterinary professionals like you with the chance to engage in the clinical tasks they love with more freedom. A growing number of vets, nurses, and vet techs are considering transitioning to locum work, attracted by the promise of financial gains and a flexible lifestyle. If you’re contemplating stepping into the locum relief world, explore our handy guide on securing a “Stress-Free, Fear-Free” locum relief lifestyle…

Find Locum Relief Jobs & Team Members

The Perks of Locum Relief Work

As a locum relief worker, you are your own boss, enjoying the advantage of setting your own schedule. Based on your income needs for the month, quarter, or year, you have the freedom to accept shifts that align with your availability, permitting you to take days off when necessary. This is a great asset for parents, offering the opportunity to sync holidays with their children’s school calendars. Moreover, it enables the pursuit of personal interests, as you can plan for early days or time off without needing approval from managers or colleagues. This flexibility allows you to balance work with non-work life.

Many locums appreciate the emotional relief associated with the absence of workplace dynamics typically associated with permanent positions. As a locum, you can focus solely on your work and leave without becoming entangled in office politics. The transient nature of locum work means that demanding or intense clients cannot develop a long-term dependence on you. The old adage, “a rolling stone gathers no moss,” holds true for locums – no moss, no fuss!

Lastly, locum relief work can be financially advantageous. Locums can often command higher rates than their full-time counterparts, with some last-minute locums earning two or even three times as much. As pet numbers and demand for high-quality veterinary services increase, putting pressure on veterinary teams, your skills and cheerful demeanor can be incredibly valuable.

Understanding and Managing Locum Work Stressors

It’s no secret that the veterinary industry can be challenging, and locum work has its own unique stressors, predominantly revolving around self-administration and being the “newbie” at each clinic. However, understanding and managing these potential stressors can help you embrace and love the locum lifestyle.

Determining Locum Relief Rates

Deciding and negotiating your market value can be tricky as a locum, though it becomes easier with experience. When starting out, refer to local online veterinary forums or sites like Veterinary Locumotion to gauge the going rates. You can also consult locum agency ads for an idea of regional rates.

Generally, you should aim for earnings at least 25% more than a comparable permanent veterinarian, compensating for lack of benefits like sick days or vacation pay. Additionally, you must earn enough to cover locum-specific expenses such as professional insurances, licenses, and accounting fees. Experienced locums can typically expect to earn 1.5-2x more than a permanent vet in an equivalent role, with last-minute shifts being the most profitable.

Handling Shift Uncertainty

Work shift uncertainty can hinder personal life planning. To mitigate this, many locums prefer pre-booked, semi-regular work with familiar clinics, accepting slightly lower rates for increased stability. Subscription platforms like Veterinary Locumotion can provide regular updates on available shifts tailored to your skills and preferred locations.

Being organized is key—ensure that clinics confirm shifts in writing, specifying dates, pay rates, any involved overtime, and included allowances. Additionally, it’s beneficial to inquire in advance about practical aspects such as parking and dress code.

Thriving in New Clinics

Locum work requires a level of clinical experience and confidence due to regularly walking into new environments. Do not hesitate to ask questions about equipment locations or clinic-specific protocols. Well-organized clinics often schedule your first few shifts with an experienced staff member for guidance.

A recommended baseline for vets is two years of experience, with nurses and vet techs needing at least one year of in-clinic experience before embarking on locum relief work. Apart from experience, projecting an air of confidence and professionalism helps earn the trust of new clients and staff.

Preparation is crucial – try to get a brief on notable cases you will be seeing on your first day to brush up in advance. Also, make it a point to review the schedule for the next day.

While no one is perfect, if there are certain aspects of practice you are uncomfortable with, discuss these upfront with the hiring clinic. Likewise, let them know your strengths so they can direct suitable cases your way.

Managing Busy Schedules

Locum shifts can be hectic, given that clinics are paying for your help to relieve pressure on their staff or allow for time off. The goal is to keep the clinic running smoothly, ideally with continued profitability.

However, it’s important to manage expectations. While it’s reasonable for a clinic to expect productivity, ensure you discuss the provision of breaks and overtime pay. If a clinic promotes poor working conditions by consistently overbooking, remember that as a locum, you have the option to fulfill your obligation and then move on.

Networking with New Staff

Regularly interacting with new veterinary colleagues can enhance professional connections, learn new treatments and protocols, and foster friendships. However, not everyone may align with your work style.

An understanding of DISC profiles can help you interact more effectively with various individuals. For instance, if a staff member displays a strong Dominance trait, you can communicate with them in a concise, factual manner, focusing on the “big picture”.

Self-Administration

Working as an independent contractor, you will handle many administrative tasks typically managed by a practice manager. You’ll need to organize your own insurances, ensure you have the necessary licenses, set up your business, invoice for your services, manage taxes, and handle your own retirement contributions. Consulting an accountant knowledgeable about veterinary locum work can guide you to practice in the most tax-efficient way.

In conclusion…

If you can be informed and stay organised, locum relief work can be a way for experienced veterinarians, nurses, and vet techs to truly achieve the Stress-Free, Fear-Free work-life balance that they’re seeking. So, lean into the locum lifestyle, and you too could be a happy cat, er, we mean vet!

References

• Locum vets: the pros and cons – https://vetpracticemag.com.au/locum-vets-the-pros-and-cons/
• The pros and cons of locuming – https://jobs.vettimes.co.uk/article/the-pros-and-cons-of-locuming
• Kick Ass Tips for Veterinary Relief Locums – https://www.kickassvets.com/blogs/blogTipsForLocums.php
• Evaluate Your Worth: Experienced Veterinarian – https://www.kickassvets.com/blogs/blogEYWExp.php

---

About Veterinary Jobs Marketplace…