Running a medical practice or clinic in Australia comes with many challenges, from patient care and compliance to staffing and scheduling. One of the most common staffing solutions is hiring a locum doctor—a qualified medical professional who temporarily fills in when your regular GPs or specialists are unavailable.
But when is the right time to bring in a locum? And what are the benefits and considerations for clinics?
In this guide, we’ll explain when and why you should hire a locum doctor, how the process works, and what to look for in a reliable locum for your clinic or practice.
What Is a Locum Doctor?
A medical doctor locum (short for locum tenens, meaning “to hold the place”) is a medical professional who temporarily takes over duties in a clinic, hospital, or private practice. Locums can be GPs, hospital doctors, or specialists, and are commonly used to fill short-term gaps caused by:
- Annual leave
- Maternity or paternity leave
- Illness or sudden absences
- Sabbaticals
- Peak periods or seasonal demand
In Australia, many locums are sourced through medical recruitment agencies, although some doctors work as independent locums.
When Should You Consider Hiring a Locum Doctor?
Here are the most common—and crucial—times to hire a locum doctor in your clinic:
When Covering Staff Leave
If one of your permanent doctors is going on annual leave, long service leave, or extended sick leave, a locum can maintain continuity of care. This ensures:
- Patients are not turned away
- Appointment slots stay filled
- Your practice remains profitable
During Peak Demand Periods
Flu season, public holidays, and post-pandemic catch-ups can lead to surges in patient numbers. A locum doctor can ease the workload on your existing staff and prevent burnout while maintaining a high standard of care.
While Recruiting a Permanent Doctor
It can take weeks or months to find the right permanent GP or specialist. Hiring a locum in the interim ensures your clinic continues to operate smoothly while you find a long-term fit.
In Rural and Remote Locations
Many rural and regional clinics in Australia rely heavily on locum doctors. Locums are often available at short notice and are comfortable working in isolated or high-demand settings. This helps maintain essential medical services in areas where full-time staff may be harder to attract.
To Expand Your Services Temporarily
If you’re trialling a new service (e.g., skin checks, women’s health, or aged care clinics), hiring a locum with a relevant specialty allows you to test demand without committing to permanent staff.
When Avoiding Staff Burnout
If your current medical team is overstretched, hiring a locum doctor can help distribute the workload more evenly. This not only improves patient care but also boosts staff morale and reduces turnover.
How to Hire the Right Locum Doctor
Whether you work with a medical recruitment agency or hire directly, here’s what to look for in a quality locum:
- AHPRA registration and all relevant credentials
- Strong communication and clinical skills
- Experience working in similar practice settings
- Flexibility and adaptability to new systems (e.g., Best Practice, MedicalDirector)
- Positive references or agency ratings
It’s also important to conduct an orientation or induction, especially if the locum will be with you for more than a few days.
Benefits of Hiring Locums for Your Clinic
Hiring locum doctors offers several advantages, including:
- Continuity of care for patients
- Reduced pressure on your permanent staff
- Flexibility to respond to fluctuating demand
- Access to specialised skills or niche services
- No long-term commitment or overheads associated with full-time staff
Most importantly, it allows your practice to remain operational, efficient, and patient-focused.
Things to Consider Before Hiring a Locum
While locums offer flexibility, it’s essential to:
- Budget for locum rates (which can be higher than salaried positions)
- Plan early for coverage during peak periods or holidays
- Provide clear guidelines and support during their placement
- Ensure all required documentation and insurance are in place
Working with a reputable medical recruitment agency can streamline this process and ensure compliance.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a locum doctor is a smart, flexible solution for clinics looking to maintain service levels, manage staff leave, and adapt to changing patient demands. Whether you need cover for a few days or a few months, the right locum can make a significant difference to your practice’s performance and patient satisfaction.
If your clinic is facing staffing challenges or planning for upcoming absences, now is the time to consider partnering with a reputable locum recruitment agency or building a roster of trusted locums.
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