Dr. Leonard Hess retired from the University of Pittsburgh in early 2014 and was looking forward to spending more time with his wife. Though locum tenens assignments weren’t originally in the cards for him, a call from Albert at Weatherby Healthcare changed everything.
The Benefits of a Good Healthcare Recruiter
“I got into locum tenens exclusively because of Albert,” the OB/GYN recalls. “I was hesitant to get involved in the career when I retired, but Albert called on several different occasions and encouraged me to give it a try. He was very honest and effective, telling me the advantages and disadvantages and assessing me personally to see if I would fit in.”
Now, nearly two years later, Dr. Hess continues to work with Weatherby and enjoy a much slower-paced lifestyle than he enjoyed in academia.
“I’m satisfied with the service I get from Weatherby Healthcare,” Dr. Hess says. “I’ve never been a number and have always been treated in a very personal fashion. Albert has gotten to know me extremely well, and we’ve become friends over the years. He has been outstanding in accommodating everything I need, keeps me informed and notifies me of any problems.”
Flexibility and Time Off Through Locum Tenens Assignments
Dr. Hess is also able to plan vacations around his assignments and manages to keep his special commitment to his wife.
“My wife and I have been married 35 years now and made a rule years ago not to be separated for more than a week at a time,” Dr. Hess says. “I sometimes have to take assignments that last two weeks, but for the most part, I can work every other week and take jobs only six or seven hours away so I can drive home.”
Though locum tenens jobs can be difficult — the biggest challenges include learning new software and getting to know new people who influence decision making at the facility — Dr. Hess relishes the opportunity to see the United States in a new way.
“I get to know people in different regions and see variations in practice while I’m there,” he says. “I stay in touch with most of the people I’ve met while on assignment through Facebook, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know their families, too.”
Finding a good staffing company is key to having a positive locum tenens experience, Dr. Hess says, and recommends looking for a consultant who’s attentive to your needs and encouraging, especially if you’re unsure whether the career is right for you.
Reasons to Work Locum Tenens After Retirement
“I’ve enjoyed the freedom of practice and ability to keep my skills as an OB/GYN up despite being retired,” Dr. Hess says. “My wife, a full-time cardiologist, plans to retire in a few years and is already considering locum tenens. We look forward to practicing together.”
Is it time for you to make a change? Check out our open locum tenens jobs, and find out how Dr. Jelica Maze juggles motherhood with her work as a cardiologist in her locum tenens spotlight.
Be sure to join us at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Annual Pregnancy Meeting Feb. 3 – 6, 2016, in Atlanta, Georgia as well!
