Locums for a Small World Blog

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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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!

5. 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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If you live in a place that has four distinct seasons you might not realize it at times but you’re fortunate. Seriously. Each season is wonderful for very different reasons what with winter and its hot cocoa, its cold-weather mountain sports and its idyllic charm. And spring with its long-anticipated promise of new growth. And summer with its seemingly endless warm-weather days filled with daytrips to the beach or hikes up in the mountains. And fall…who could ever forget fall? This season’s got those cool, refreshing breezes, that warm, golden light and almost the entire visible spectrum of changing leaves.

Do you reside somewhere in the Northern Hemisphere? Then you’ve no doubt already started seeing the autumnal changes. For all you leaf peepers out there this is prime-time viewing, especially in New England. Take a locum tenens job in the Northeast this fall. And be sure to hit up these 10 regions and scenic byways. That’s right, we’ve gathered up some of the best places for you to go leaf peeping while you’re here (in no particular order). Check them out.

1) Litchfield Hills, Connecticut


Lauded as one of the best regions to go leaf peeping, you’d be remiss if you didn’t venture to the Litchfield Hills for a classic taste of fall. This region is teeming with white church steeples, rolling backcountry roads, covered bridges and two-story clapboard colonials complete with red doors. And it’s all set against a golden-hued heavenly backdrop you will definitely write home about.

2) Lake Candlewood and Squantz Pond State Park, Connecticut


On top of being Connecticut’s largest lake, Candlewood is also a leaf-peeper’s paradise. On the way you can stop off at DiGrazia Vineyards, which isn’t far off from Lake Candlewood’s shores, to taste some fine New England specialty wines. Or if you’d like to keep at it, head to the western side, to Squantz Pond State Park for fantastic views of rolling hills immaculately covered with burnt-orange leaves.

3) The Berkshires, Massachusetts


The Berkshires, what region could be more famous for fall foliage? Rhetorical, of course. This region, capitalizing on its beauty over the years, has amassed a lovely array of unforgettable bed-and-breakfasts and spa retreats. Feel free to stay a night or two. Not only will you leave more relaxed, you’ll leave with a new perspective. Literally, within a matter of days, the fall leaves tend to turn an even more brilliant hue.

4) Old King’s Highway, Massachusetts


We truly don’t believe it gets much better than Old King’s Highway. To be honest, we’re biased. If you’re going to choose but one of these scenic places to visit while on locum tenens assignment in the Northeast, we highly recommend this one. This route gets busy but not too busy. It takes you right along Cape Cod Bay, through quaint towns, past antique shops and – most importantly – right into the magnificence of autumn in New England.

5) Lake Champlain, Vermont


We don’t think a bad word can be said about Vermont’s landscape. It’s considered royalty when it comes to autumn scenery. While there are countless places to travel in the Green Mountain State for fall-like nostalgia, Lake Champlain is perhaps the most unique. Unique insofar as you can take a cruise out on the lake and gain a grandiose perspective – orange sunlight, crimson trees and deep blue waters blanket the horizon to give you exceptional views. Be sure to visit the maritime museum while you’re in the area, too.

6) Route 100, Vermont


To truly get a glimpse of the brilliance that is autumn in Vermont, we suggest you travel down Route 100. Dedicate a whole day – or two days – to the trip. Over 200 miles long and with over 20 picturesque towns along the way there’s no shortage of things to do along Route 100. Stop off in Weston at the Vermont Country Store. If you have kids along for the ride take them to the candy counter here, there's no doubt they'll love perusing the glorious selection of sweets.

7) Kancamagus Scenic Highway, New Hampshire


Ah, the White Mountains. You’ve heard of these, we’re sure. They’re the most famous rugged mountains in New Hampshire, part of the northern Appalachian Mountains. And the Kancamagus Scenic Highway AKA “the Kanc” (pronounced “Kank-ah-mah-gus”) cuts right through these jagged beauties replete with endless fall foliage. It’s now designated as an American Scenic Byway. Drive the route in early to mid-October and you’ll see why.

8) Lake Sunapee Scenic Byway, New Hampshire


Often touted as slower-paced and less frenzied than other scenic byways in the area, Lake Sunapee Scenic Byway is a must visit. The lake itself is a popular, year-round destination but come fall-time its not nearly as busy. That means less crowds as well as more scenery for you to freely explore. Meander along the 25-mile route and on the way stop at Fells Historic Site for an easy, intimate hike into protected forestland.

9) Acadia National Park Loop Road, Maine


Acadia National Park is downright mesmerizing any time of the year. But if you really want a peek into what it looks like during fall then take the Park Loop Road, 27 miles of brilliance. Situated on Maine’s Mount Desert Island this loop is filled to the brim with misty ambience, miles of changing leaves and oceanic views. Would you like an all-encompassing history of the park while you drive? An audio CD is available for purchase at Hulls Cove Visitor Center.

10) Blackstone River Valley, Rhode Island


Known officially as the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, this slice of New England highway starts in Worcester, Massachusetts and settles in Providence, Rhode Island. If you’d rather get outside the car for a while and stretch your legs then take a bike tour through the backwoods of Blackstone River Valley. It will be memorable to say the least. Or if you’d just like a different perspective other than the open road you can book a riverboat tour, too, complete with a guide.

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