As a Locum Tenens, you’re likely very familiar with jumping into a new locum tenens assignment. While you use your medical skills and knowledge to excel in a new role, finding out how to make the best of your new community may be challenging, especially when you’re in a completely new territory.
Whether you’re seasoned or a first-timer, we have a few suggestions to help ease the transition into your new community and make the best of your new locum tenens assignment.
1. Get to know your colleagues and co-workers
You next locum tenens assignment may only last a few months to a year but taking the time to get to know who you’re working with can have a great impact for everyone. Whether you choose to get to know your colleagues better through an after-work dinner, a simple hangout, or attending an event together, knowing more about them can save you time and build a support system.
See how this surgeon made a lasting impact on his colleagues by writing his name on his forehead.
2. Participate in community events
Immersing yourself in a community you’re unfamiliar with can seem daunting, but there are several ways to get to know your community and make it fun! Whether you prefer to volunteer your time, attend events or participate in local activities, simply getting involved can boost the bond between you and your new community. By filling your schedule with these fun activities and events you’re also creating a happier and fulfilling schedule for yourself, which can promote a happier and healthier lifestyle.
3. Go in-depth with local history
Getting to know the history of a local town or community can give you a deeper appreciation for your surroundings. There are plenty of fun facts to learn about each and every community – create your own adventure to find them out by taking a tour or visiting a local museum.
4. Join a local club or group
Joining a group or a club can provide you with the opportunity to explore new hobbies, meet new people, and spend time in enjoyable activities. If your new locum tenens assignment is located in a medium- to a large-sized community, you’ll likely have a good variety of clubs or groups to choose from. If you can’t find any groups or clubs in smaller, more rural areas, you could always start your own!
Diving into a new community when you’re on a new locum tenens assignment can seem daunting for some. As long as you’re willing to get out there and explore all that a community has to offer, you’ll find transitioning and settling in a new location easier than you thought.
Being a Locum Tenens physician offers you flexibility, work-life balance, and often adventure as you often travel to new places for various assignments.