What is locum work like?
Some dentists are reluctant to consider being a locum dentist for different reasons in comparison too permanent positions.
Here, we will share, why so many dentists are benefiting from being a locum dentist. The flexibility, benefits, and experiences that this type of work will provide in return.
Flexibility
First and foremost, this type of dentistry will provide you with flexibility. As a locum dentist, you retain the power to be able to change any working conditions easily. Locum dentistry is excellent for those needing to work out of the typical 9-5, Monday to Friday.
Locums come from many pathways, seeking flexibility to help achieve parenting commitments, work-life balance, and feeling more in control. Ultimately, if you want to be a locum, you can work days to suit you.
This flexibility does work both ways—proof of this is seen when locum dentists who travel further than they usually would for a permanent position. Often staying overnight, so to remain local and keep the commuting costs and time to a minimum. These locum dentists benefit from work all year round and at some of the highest rewards.
Remuneration
Secondly and also just as important, you can benefit from increased remunerations as a locum dentist. In most parts of the UK (excluding London), there tends to be a requirement for additional locum dentistry and a shortage of contractors available. Subsequently, this has driven up the pay rates on offer for the locum dentist. Clearly, this has driven up the remuneration rates, often supported for travel and accommodation too. You can download our invoice example HERE.
No long term commitment
Above all, in most locum assignments, you can exit the contract in a substantially shorter period. Twelve weeks is the norm for permanent associates. Some locum dentists find this critical for many different reasons. The reality is that you can never honestly know what a practice is like to work at till you are in the surgery. When the assignment does not suit you for any reason, the job can be exited more swiftly than permanent employment.
As a dentist recruiter, we work with you and your situation. Once the right positions have been found, we will support you in the introduction, negotiations, and placement as a locum dentist. No doubt, you will have more questions about this type of work.
Compliance
You will need to supply all of your compliance documents to employers before you commence locum with them. Best practice is to have all of these documents scanned and saved electronically on a device, ideally your phone. When requested, you are then able to send them to clients ASAP. We have created a compliance checklist HERE to help guide you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we answer some of the most common questions that dentists ask when considering this type of dentistry.
How does it work?
You tell us which days you are available for locum work. Next, we send you options as we find them via email/SMS. Once we find a locum job you like, we will contact our client on your behalf and express your interest. We then secure you a telephone chat and practice visit. When all parties are happy to proceed, we arrange a start date and send you confirmations. At the end of each month, we check in with you to clarify the dates that you worked for that month.
How will I know about new roles?
Firstly we will send you brief details via SMS/Email. Secondly, we will speak at a time that works for you (often using a call booking system). Or you may see one of our adverts online, and therefore you can call us.
Will you need compliance docs and references?
Once you receive a locum offer, we can be asked by the client to forward your compliance documents. A full list of required compliance is HERE.
When working as a locum for your clients, who will pay me?
Locum contractors will be paid directly by the client. Regular invoices are to be sent to the client directly at the pre-agreed rates. You will be paid directly to your bank.
What will my notice period be?
Normally this is 2 working weeks notice by both parties. Sometimes that can be different and should be agreed before commencing assignment.