Tag : Locum Tenens

More reasons to hate on the term “mid-level” – as if there weren’t enough already…

As many of you know I do not particularly care for the term “mid-level” practitioner.  Just in case you aren’t familiar with my opinions on the subject you can read one of my posts from May 2012 in which I give numersous reasons to shun the term.  (if you agree please share!)

Now, as if there weren’t already enough reasons to dislike that label I have found yet another – and it is a doozy.

I came across a link to what is actually a very handy grid from which outlines the DEA authorization to prescribe controlled substances in each state. It is a state by state guide to which schedules we are allowed to prescribe.  This is actually quite a helpful resource if you are considering a move to another state or perhaps thinking of doing a NP or PA travel or locum tenens assignment.

The guide starts out with the official definition of a “mid-level” provider.

Pursuant to Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 1300.01(b28), the term mid-level practitioner means an individual practitioner, other than a physician, dentist, veterinarian, or podiatrist, who is licensed, registered, or otherwise permitted by the United States or the jurisdiction in which he/she practices, to dispense a controlled substance in the course of professional practice. Examples of mid-level practitioners include, but are not limited to, health care providers such as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists and physician assistants who are authorized to dispense controlled substances by the state in which they practice.

OK, I don’t like this definition but I can live with it, at least for now.  But then I kept reading and I see that also included in this mid-level category is “animal shelters” and “euthanasia technicians”.  WTF?

This is still a helpful guide but it really is hard to look past this.  Who can we complain to?

You really must see it for yourself.  Click here.

Lots of Locums

Now that my first column on Locum Tenens assignments has gone “live” I have been recieving a ton of emails and calls. First, let me say I am pleased so many NP’s and PA’s are reading what I write! It’s nice to know you are out there. It’s also nice to see so many clinicians warming up to doing temporary jobs. So far I have heard from folks at both ends of the career spectrum, some are NP’s who are just beginning their career while others are looking towards retirement and just looking for something different (but lucrative). All have concerns and questions.

Temp NP or PA jobs definitely take you out of your comfort zone, some see this as exciting and challenging while others might view it as nothing but pure stress. No matter which way you lean I advise you to be sure to get some critical information before you agree to that temporary job assignment.

Be sure you find out the reason that the employer is seeking a locum tenens clinician. Is this a new venture and they prefer to see if things are going to work out before taking on a permanent employee? In our current ecomony this is very reasonable and actually protects you as much as it protects them. If things don’t work out for any reason no one will question a short employment entry on your NP resume if the position was a temp assignment. And if it does work out you could have your foot in the door to be hired permanently.

If the reason they are seeking a locum tenens clinicians is due to a a vacancy it is a good idea for you to you find out why the previous provider left. It could be something as simple as a medical leave or something much more serious such as a toxic work environment. Good to know before you commit.

Next week I will talk about ways to ensure that you have adequate physician back-up while you are out on assignment. Stay tuned…

Finding a job fast

Economic conditions have clinicians considering alternative NP and PA job opportunities.

This week I recieved a question from a reader. Her spouse is out of work and she needs to get to work fast. She was wondering if a short term or Locum Tenens NP job could be the answer to her situation.

Temporary or locum tenens assignments are growing in popularity and as usual I have some advice to help you decide if this is an option for you.

To read my answer check out my latest post over at “Advance for NP/PA’s”