Locums for a Small World Blog

Top 5 U.S. states to work locum tenens jobs

Posted by Kari Redfield



Explore the country, contributing your valuable medical skills where they’re most needed — while earning good money. That’s all possible with locum tenens. Right now, we have openings all across the U.S.

Some physicians choose to do locum tenens full-time, in order to gain work/life balance, spend time with family, and choose their own hours. Other physicians take on occasional locums work in order to travel to their bucket list destinations. Isn’t it time that you did something for yourself? Went someplace new? Tried something different?

Why not line up an assignment — and explore while you’re there? Oh, and did we mention the perks? In most cases, we pay for your airline flights, housing, and malpractice insurance. We’ll help you through the licensing and credentialing processes. Plus, wherever you go, you’ll be adding to your CV while helping people where you’re needed and appreciated.

Not sure where to go? Here are the five top states to explore:


  1. California: Sea to mountains, city to country, and everything in between!

One of our regular locums physicians likes to visit Santa Barbara in order to take on some locum tenens shifts, to see friends, and to enjoy the sights and food. Many other locum tenens doctors choose to take assignments in iconic California, too. And why not? In California, you can explore wine country; walk through Hollywood; and visit Yosemite, the Redwoods, Joshua Tree, Lake Tahoe, and all of the other wild wonders. From city life to remote mountains to beautiful beachside sunsets to all kinds of entertainment, California has variety and splendor for everyone.

Ready to go on your own Californian adventure and get paid for it? Contact us today, as a permanent California license takes about 16 weeks to secure. We’ll help you through it, and typically cover the cost.

  1. Massachusetts: History, beer, sports, water — and more!

There’s so much to do in Massachusetts, from the famous Massachusetts Whale Trail — which links nearly 40 museums, attractions, whale watching excursions, historic sites, and tours — to the legendary sites in Boston, to a replica of the original Mayflower boat, to the wonders of Cape Cod and Nantucket. And there’s crabbing, clamming, fishing — and so much more! Food, brew pubs, arts, theater, sports, and many activities captivate tourists and locals alike.

Western Massachusetts is beautiful, full of lush green hills in the Berkshires, to the dazzling foliage along the Mohawk Trail, America’s first scenic road drive (and yes, you can hike through the forest there, too). Hike and bike this side of the state — or go on a local food tour via the quant bed-and-breakfasts and spas.

Oh, and who wouldn’t want to enjoy New England’s dazzling colors in fall? And don’t forget the 14,000 acres of active cranberry bogs. 

Sound fun? Get started, as generally, licensing takes 16 weeks, so contact us today if you’re interested, and we’ll help you through the process.


  1. North Carolina: Mountains, valleys, and sea

North Carolina has mountains, valleys, and miles of seashore. Whether you’re looking for an urban retreat, or something off the beaten path for all kinds of recreational adventure (from fishing, hot air ballooning, sky diving, hiking, biking, skiing, golf, rock climbing, and more), you can find it in North Carolina. Visit eclectic cafes and breweries, moonshine distilleries, vineyards, historic landmarks, museums about the Wright brothers and their famous Kitty Hawk and so many other historical eras — and lots more.

As the locals say, “North Carolina has long been associated with sweet tea, NASCAR and the Duke-Chapel Hill basketball rivalry.” All true, but there’s much more too.

Licensing takes about six weeks, so get started with us today.


  1. Minnesota: They call it ‘Minnesota nice’ for a reason

Minnesota boasts more than 10,000 natural glacial lakes and is perhaps the origins of politeness, with down-to-Earth people who know how to work hard and express their gratitude. If you like nature, water, and water sports (from top-notch fishing lakes to water skiing), then be sure to visit. With so many lakes and rivers, Minnesota has more miles of shoreline than California, Florida, and Hawaii combined.

The Twin Cities (the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area) features culture galore, including numerous museums, more than 120 theater companies, tons of local music, and good food. With so many parks and green space, you can bike from one side of Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area to the other on bike paths with nary leaving greenspace.

Southwestern Minnesota features prairie land, quiet spaces, and simple, uber affordable living. Northern Minnesota, is the land of lakes and forests, with Duluth acting as the gateway to Lake Superior, which is so big that all the other Great Lakes combined could fit into it, with waves sometimes as tall as 40 feet.

Licensing in Minnesota can take about six weeks, so reach out to us today!


  1. Michigan: The Great Lake State, industry central, and Motown

From Mackinac Island, where no cars are allowed, to the origins of American industry, to jumping off into adventure on any of the four Great Lakes, Michigan has a lot to offer. Uniquely, no matter where you are in Michigan, you’re always within 85 miles of one of the Great Lakes’ shorelines. The Upper Peninsula is known for rugged living, splendid wildlife, numerous lakes, and nature. It’s a must-see at least once in a lifetime and the perfect spot for any type of outdoor adventure. In the Lower Peninsula, visit museums to see the birthplace of modern industry, explore the roots of Motown, dine on fine or fun food, see live music, and go to festivals, farmers markets, and more.

As the locals say it, “Whether you are an urban adventurer or an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie or a thrill-seeker, traveling with your family or making memories with friends — you are on the brink of planning a vacation so unique, it can only be classified as Pure Michigan.”

Plan around six weeks to get your license. Contact us today!

Get started on your adventure

Ready to explore your own locum tenens adventure? Ready to treat yourself to some travel? Click the button below to browse our current openings, or give us a call at 1.800.760.3174.

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Global Medical's top 5 regions for locum tenens doctors to explore in 2017

Posted by Everett Fitch


It’s that time of year again. The holidays are in full swing. But they will be gone just as fast as they came. We thought it’d be best to prime you with next year’s top 5 regions to explore now instead of waiting ‘til January. That way you can start lacing up your boots, packing your bags and be ready to go once the New Year ball drops. Or at the very least make some tentative plans to travel in 2017.

Fortunately you don’t have to drop your career for any length of time. Within these wondrous regions we have an abundance of locum tenens opportunities for you to take advantage of. Whether your heart is drawn to wander about the countryside or your stomach is hankering to discover the best restaurants in the city, any of these regions will supply you with ample amenities. What’s more you can see how physicians in different practice settings – possibly different countries – deliver care.

As always, if you’ve been to any of these places, feel free to share your favorite adventures. A world of possibilities awaits you within these 5 striking regions.

Tasmania – East Coast


What can be said about Tasmania that hasn’t already been said? A lot. We’ve barely scratched the surface, barely touched the coast in all our writings. That’s why we’re bringing the East Coast to your attention.

Did you know there are a slew of national parks spread along this part of Tasmania? You’ve got Freycinet National Park with clear waters, pink mountains and Wineglass Bay. Then there’s Maria Island National Park where you can climb to the top of Mt. Maria (2,332 feet up) and witness all-encompassing views of Tasmania. And Douglas-Apsley National Park (named after the streams that wash through the region) is a can’t-miss, too, what with its thick eucalypt forest, deep gorges and magnificent waterfalls.

How to make it the ultimate trip:

Take to the open road. You can hit all the above and more in one fantastic journey called the Great Eastern Drive.

Michigan – The Upper Peninsula


The Upper Peninsula in Michigan has national parks, historic sites, over 40 lighthouses, shipwrecks, waterfalls and packed forests all ready to be explored. Even in winter you can experience so much beauty in such a small stretch of America.

For example, head to Isle Royale National Park for an introduction to pure wilderness. 53 miles away from the nearest town, Isle Royale can only be accessed by ferry, floatplane or passenger ship. Believe it or not this national park is one of the least visited in the country. Don’t let that deter you. It’s not visited much because of its remoteness. But that adds to its appeal. Keep in mind this massive archipelago is only open to visitors from April 15 – October 31.

How to make it the ultimate trip:

If you don’t want to wait until summer we recommend taking an entirely different ferry to Mackinac Island (pronounced Mack-in-aw), which is open year-round. While this island is actually located between the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula we still suggest a day or two here not only to explore Michigan’s diverse landscape but its incredibly rich history, too.

Hawaii – Windward Coast


The very word Hawaii conjures up images of unrivaled beauty. Green peaks scrape the sky and fall all the way to the Pacific. The landscape that surrounds inspires most to relax, some to surf and a select few to drop everything and move to these shores.

The Windward Coast might be the place that finally convinces you to stay indefinitely. If you need a nudge then head to Nuuanu Pali Lookout, a five-mile drive northeast of Honolulu. Your head will be in the clouds and your eyes will cease blinking solely to capture as much of the Koolau Cliffs as possible. Other points of interest along the Windward Coast are Makapuu Point Lighthouse, Valley of the Temples and Kailua Beach Park.

How to make it the ultimate trip:

Spend a day in Kailua, a town roughly 30 minutes northeast of Honolulu. Known for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches the scenery can’t be beat. But if you want more than just pretty views then hit up the farmers’ markets, hip boutiques and delicious restaurants that are abundant in this town.

Oregon – Coast


The coast of Oregon is a long sweep. It’s tough to pick just a few spots to check out. Still you can already see the mist-blanketed sea stacks and quaint oceanside towns we’re about to describe, can’t you?

Like Florence, a river- and seaside city just about halfway between the northern and southern borders of Oregon. To get your fill of scenery visit Heceta Head Lighthouse and Sea Lion Caves nearby. Then hit up the Waterfront Depot for the tastiest of seafood.

How to make it the ultimate trip:

Cannon Beach has to be one of the only places in the world where people are happy to don their sweatshirts simply to chase that almost unreachable feeling of silent awe. And the cause of that awe? Haystack Rock of course. This 235-foot-tall sea stack just off Cannon Beach could be the most famous ocean monolith in the entire United States but we’re just guessing.

Our recommendation: stand in amazement for a moment then take a peaceful stroll along the beach.

South Carolina – Coast


It wasn’t intentional by any means but you’re starting to notice a theme, aren’t you? Except one region we’ve outlined, the rest are coastal. We suppose we’re urging you to travel to the oceans of the world. Though a massive body of water does border the Upper Peninsula in Michigan, too. No matter. We’re here to end the list with the coast of South Carolina, home to such greats as Hilton Head Island, Charleston and Myrtle Beach.

Granted there are 2,876 miles of tidal coastline so if you only have time to make it to a few places we do recommend the wonderful places we’ve outlined above. Hilton Head Island has its dramatic marshland and some of the most jaw-dropping white-sand beaches along the Atlantic. Charleston is historic and imbued with picturesque architecture overlooking the ocean. And Myrtle Beach…well it’s renowned for many remarkable things, one of which is its world-class golf.

How to make it the ultimate trip:

Stay in Charleston for a while, a romanticism exists here unlike any other. What to do? Pick a direction on any cobblestone street and start walking. You’ll encounter antebellum buildings and a slew of delicious eats.

What now? There's no better time like the present to start planning your 2017 travels. Oh and be sure to consider any of the above locales when searching for your next locum tenens assignment.

Happy 2017 travels!

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Locum tenens adventures: Explore amazing landscapes and lesser-known gems across the Midwest

Posted by Everett Fitch


Some people consider the Midwest to be a flyover region, meaning there’s not much to explore. We’re not those people. We emphatically believe the 12 states that make up the Midwest hold some of the most perspective-shattering views throughout the entire U.S. That’s definitely a bold statement considering this region is backlit by some extremely beautiful places. Landscapes to live up to like Yellowstone in Wyoming and Glacier in Montana. Or metropolises that are pretty difficult to hold a candle to like New York City and Boston. But you know what we say to people who so staunchly favor those sights over the Midwest? What about the Great Lakes and the Badlands? What about Chicago? These are wonderfully stunning places, too. We would be struck with remorse if we didn’t do our best to shout from the rooftops about all these countless Midwest treasures.

Ultimately, we want to say that the American Midwest should not be so quickly dismissed as “flyover.” Because on top of all the big cities here, you’ll find a slew of lesser-known gems scattered throughout that we bet you’d be dying to see if you knew about them. Luckily for you, we’re going to tell you about a few treasures to look out for; so prepare for an eyeful, here’s the best of the Midwest.

Northern Michigan – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

These three words will change the way you feel about the Midwest: Sleeping Bear Dunes. Enter that into Google and see what comes up. The herculean Lake Michigan challenges your perception. You’ll be questioning whether or not you’re viewing the open sea with all that seemingly infinite water laid out before you. Couple that with scenes of joyous people artlessly tossing themselves down honey-colored dunes that fall right into the bluer-than-blue lake below and you pretty much know what Sleeping Bear is all about. In other words, you’ll be enraptured by colorful earth within a sea of smiles.













If you don’t have too long to discover the area then head to the Phillip A. Hart Visitor Center first. This place will get you set up with maps and an intro to the park. They’ll most likely tell you to take the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive because it gives you a quick but satisfying look into the magnificence of Sleeping Bear.

South Dakota – Badlands National Park

The name itself conjures up images of Mars, or some strange dream you maybe had as a kid. At sunset, get here to experience the rainbow-layered buttes of Badlands National Park and one of those things will probably still be coming to mind. This park elicits fervor in people that’s unrivaled – possibly because they don’t expect such immense beauty in South Dakota. But it’s here.













"Mako sica" means “land bad” in the Native American language, Lakota. “Les mauvais terres pour traverse" means "bad lands to travel through" in French. It’s no coincidence the name stuck what with the rugged terrain and lack of water. Still many animals thrive here (e.g., prairie dogs, mule deer, bison, bighorn sheep and coyotes). And many once thrived here: Walk where saber-toothed cats and rhinos used to roam.

You’re also welcome to drive. Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway (SD 240) is the most breathtaking route, and consistently rated as a top-ten scenic drive. Don’t leave here without hiking the Notch Trail though. It’s a one-and-a-half-mile (round trip) hike that finishes with captivating views of the White River Valley.

Northern Wisconsin – Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Have you ever heard of the Apostle Islands in Northern Wisconsin? No? Well, let us paint a picture for you.













Imagine a patch of summer air being passed back and forth between waves. As the sun slowly gains height above Lake Superior, beams of fiery orange light meet with this sweet-smelling air. And before it’s carried to shore, with every cycle of crest and trough in the wave, the patch of air becomes more fragrant, now thick with a balmy heat. Eventually the breeze finds a home in a cave built from age-old sandstone. You come up from the depths of Lake Superior only to be met with this intimate current of air and that utterly enchanting smell. Welcome to the windblown, cliff- and cave-drenched, forested masterpiece of nature that is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. What we just painted for you was a summer day full of scuba diving amongst sandstone caves. You’re welcome.

Chicago, Illinois – The Ledge in Sears Tower (now Willis Tower)

Now for a little break from the wild scenery we just decorated your mind with and right on into the city. Chicago is equal parts grit and grace. It can be seen as the backbone of the Midwest plus its oceanic shoreline is pure poetry for the eyes.

You should absolutely go to all the usual haunts: Millennium Park, Magnificent Mile, Wrigley Field and the Art Institute of Chicago. We would like to delve a bit deeper, though, to give you a place that isn’t so often talked about. (We highly recommend that you visit all those brilliant sites still – especially the Art Institute. It’s the second largest art museum in the U.S.)













You’ve heard of Sears Tower, we’re positive (AKA Willis Tower). It is the third tallest building in the world after all. But what you possibly haven’t heard about is The Ledge. This is essentially a glass box housed in the 103rd floor observation room. It towers over the city. You’ll be pleased to know you can experience second-to-none views of the Windy City, just about 50 miles worth on a clear day. Don’t worry, The Ledge is made of one-and-a-half inches of glass and can support up to 5 tons.

There you have it, four lesser-known experiences in the great Midwest. Now it's time to find a reason to visit (hint: find a Midwest locum tenens assignment right here). After you do that, set out exploring in the above-mentioned places. Maybe you can even seek out some unique experiences that aren’t on the list. In fact, we’d love to hear if you have any sites you’d recommend, too, in the comments below. Happy travels!

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