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There is an expectation — even a recommendation — among many that it's better to practice in a more traditional setting before embarking on a career as a locums anesthesiologist. In this Member Spotlight, early-career anesthesiologist Dr. Adam Moore walks us through his decision to pursue a different path.

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You went into locums just two years after completing residency. Can you begin by telling us a bit about your early experience and what you were seeing/hearing that suggested locums as the best option so early in your anesthesiology career?

I never intended to go into locums. I joined a group on the partnership track, but ultimately I turned down my partnership offer and began to search for another job. During that job search, I met multiple anesthesiologists who went into locums shortly after completing residency. They showed me that it was not as difficult as I assumed to setup the structure required to be a 1099 contractor or understand the current locum anesthesia landscape. I decided to use locums temporarily to help me search for a full-time job that fits my life. Locums is a great tool to use when making a transition in your career or life. I was entering into fatherhood, but I have met others that started locums early in their career, near-retirement, and everything in between.

What was it like in your first year of locums practice and how did it compare to your first job as a W2? Biggest surprise, longest learning curve, most/least rewarding moments?

My first year of locums practice was better than I could have imagined. There is a small learning curve to setting up a PLLC, filing for S-CORP status, finding a good CPA, learning how to negotiate a locums contract, etc. After that initial work, I have found great locums contracts and my enjoyment of practicing anesthesiology has increased significantly. The most rewarding moments are meeting new groups, anesthesiologists, surgeons, nurses, reps, and hospital administration. My network within anesthesia and medicine has expanded rapidly in the past two years.

What are things like for you now? Can you describe a typical “week in the life”? How do you think this might compare to your peers who have chosen a more traditional career path post-residency—especially in terms of work/life balance?

My life is better than ever. I work as much as I want, but I also have time to spend with my family and friends. I am able to make sure that I do not miss the events that are most important to me. Another locum anesthesiologist’s typical week can vary greatly from mine. The beauty of locums is having more autonomy to decide what work schedule works best for you. I have focused on contracts that do not have weekends or call. For a time I worked Mon-Fri, other times I worked four days per week. I have the ability to pick up call or weekends, but I choose not to. When comparing to my peers on a more traditional career path, I have peers that have a similar schedule to me. I also have some that have my old schedule: multiple calls per month, weekend calls monthly, unpredictable hours, and the difficulty of drafting vacation weeks one year in advance.

Have you ever wished you’d gone the more traditional route? If not, why not?

I am happy that I left the traditional route. One of the hidden values of locums is the ability to meet many different groups and anesthesiologists who have practiced in many different group settings. It has given me the ability to know what terms I want in my future employment contracts and the type of group that I want to work within. Locums showed me the true value that I bring to a group.

What advice do you have for current residents who may be considering going into locums sooner rather than later?

I would find a mentor that will help you along the path of setting up a PLLC, opening a business bank account, setting up tax payments, finding a CPA, finding a lawyer to review contracts, and give tips about all of the little things that a locums learns along the way. The most important advice is to find a job that works for your life. It may take time to find, but it is out there. Locums is a great way to discover what you need, and where you can find it.

Is there anything else you’d like to add that we haven’t yet touched on?

Locums can have a negative connotation in certain anesthesia circles, but over the past two years, I have met many top-tier anesthesiologists who also happen to be locums. Almost universally, the reason that they are in locums anesthesia is to have a job that fits their life, not a life that fits their job. I am always available to help anyone who is interested in locums anesthesia. Please email me at adammoore.md.tx@gmail.com.

Adam Moore, MD, is an attending physician in San Antonio, Texas. He is a graduate of the University of Texas Houston.

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