Get Ready to Locum: Our Top Tips

The non-specialist locum market is booming in 2024, with lots of new doctors commencing their locum journey. Here are our top tips to help you secure those competitive shifts.

1. Get your credentials ready

First things first, ensure your credentials are up-to-date.

Your CV is your introduction to potential employers, so make sure it highlights your experience, skills, and qualifications effectively.

Ensure you have certified copies of your ID and qualifications. Some States will accept notarisation by a medical practitioner in line with AHPRA regulations, however, some will require Justice of the Peace (JP) certified documents, so consider a trip to your local JP to cover all bases.

Have evidence of your vaccination history. You may need to provide evidence of the following: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (dTpa), Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Varicella, Hepatitis B, Influenza, COVID-19, Tuberculosis (TB)

Keep your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records current and complete any necessary courses such as ALS, BLS and HETI locum modules for NSW. Your Recruitment Consultant can advise you on which courses may be necessary for specific locum placements.

Speak to your referees and ask for permission to use them as a referee, and if they can complete and return the reference form promptly.

Don’t forget to have your background checks in order, including a recent criminal record check and any necessary Working With Children Check (WWCC) applications.

Recruitment Consultants need you to be work-ready and the hospitals need full credentials on presentation. When you are fully credentialed you can be presented for locum shifts at short notice and have a greater chance of securing shifts.

2. Be flexible on location

If your preferred regions don’t have shifts available where else could you go?

While it’s natural to have preferred work locations, being open to exploring new places can significantly expand your opportunities. Consider regional and rural placements, which often offer diverse case mixes, invaluable hands-on experience, and the chance to work with some incredible people. These are often some of the best places to locum.

If you’ve heard mixed reviews about a particular location, keep in mind that work environments change over time. Ask your Recruitment Consultant to find out if there are ongoing issues or if they have been resolved. Give it a try, and if you have concerns upon arrival, don’t hesitate to let us know. We’re here to support you every step of the way, and if adjustments are needed, we can work together to find a solution.

3. Map out your availability as far in advance as possible

Locum shifts fill up fast, so it’s essential to map out your availability well in advance and keep your Recruitment Consultant informed. Blocking out personal time for holidays, studies, or anything else is completely fine – the sooner you update us, the better chance we have of finding you the perfect fit.

It’s important to be specific about your schedule, especially when moving from night shifts to day shifts so that we can plan your rest breaks and factor in travel time accordingly.

4. Register with PRODA

Some locum jobs may require you to have a Medicare Provider Number, and having a PRODA account can streamline the process of obtaining one at short notice.

Make sure you’re registered and ready to go when these opportunities arise.

5. Confirm your Indemnity

To work as a locum, you must have appropriate indemnity coverage separate from your employer’s policies. Contact your provider to ensure you have the necessary level of coverage and provide your certificate of currency to your Elective Recruitment Consultant.

Locum doctors in Australia enjoy access to a variety of experiences, interesting locations, flexible working and financial rewards. Get the basics done right and start your locum adventure today!

Remember, we don’t always advertise locum shifts on our website as some are filled so quickly. Don’t miss out on exciting opportunities; register with us today to be the first to hear about all the latest locum jobs.