The UK provides ample job opportunities for doctors and various other medical professionals. Amongst these jobs, locum doctor jobs have become very popular in the UK. One reason is because of the nature of locum jobs and how it can be on demand throughout the year. High pay rates are also another reason for the popularity of locum jobs in the UK.

Let’s learn more about locum jobs and how much you can earn as a locum doctor in the UK.

What is locum work?

Locum work is generally short-term tenures that you can undertake instead or apart from a full-time position. Many hospitals, clinics, medical centers and various other healthcare institutions recruit locum doctors throughout the year.

Some individuals prefer to do locum doctors jobs due to their flexibility while some others opt due to the higher pay rates. Nevertheless, there are several advantages to becoming a locum doctor in the UK.

Benefits and drawbacks of becoming a locum doctor in the UK

There is so much you can gain working as a locum doctor in the UK. Here are a few reasons why you should try this type of assignment.

·        Great pay rates and the ability to earn some quick cash.

·        It provides you can opportunity to explore and try out various specialties before choosing one.

·        Locum jobs are flexible and provides you with the independence that you require.

·        It gives you the chance to travel and enjoy different places while working and earning an income.

·        Some local agencies provide great training opportunities for locum doctors to expand their knowledge and skills.

·        Locum works and the different specialties allows you to expand your resume.

·        You get to work in a diversified work setting.

However, locum jobs may not always give you everything that you want and expect as you would when doing a permanent job. Here are some of the drawbacks of doing locum work.

·        You may not be entitled for sick leave, maternity leave, or pension schemes when undertaking locum tenures. However, some agencies provide this opportunity after completing a specific period of locum work.

·        You don’t get the chance to build a strong network among hospital or medical center staff.

·        You need to manage your finances and tax related procedures since you are an independent entity.

Is a locum doctor job suitable for you?

Now that you know the pros and cons of working as a locum doctor, you might be wondering if it is the type of work that you should undertake. Locum work would be a great chance to earn some quick cash, especially if you are in between changing jobs or are going to be out of your usual practice area due to personal commitments etc.

It is also a good chance to explore different specialties in general practice, one you step into the medical field.

Locum jobs might not be the best choice or everyone, but it certainly has many benefits that you can work around with to fit your schedule.

Requirements to being a locum doctor in the UK

Becoming a locum doctor is not anymore easier than becoming a full-time doctor. In fact, you need to be qualified to work in a locum tenure. It’s only the nature of your assignment that changes and not your role as a medical professional.

Therefore, a locum doctor requires to have full registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) and be registered as a General Practitioner (GP) in the UK.

Apart from that, you need to possess the following, to work as a locum doctor in the UK.

·        Copy of medical degree certification and evidence of training programs.

·        Copy of your medical indemnity certificate.

·        GMC registration number and certification details.

·        Proof of identities such as driving licence or passport and NHS smart card.

·        Evidence of previous work assignment.

·        Register with the GP Performers List which is a database with all qualified GPs who practice in the UK.

·        Attain annual professional reviews.

·        Have your equipment to use during practice.

Locum employment options in the UK

Locum doctor jobs are available in a variety of healthcare settings in the UK. Locum doctors can find jobs in public and private hospitals, private medical clinics, and medical centers. A vast majority of locum doctors in the UK work in the NHS, surgeries, or GPs.

Locum doctors can also find employment opportunities in non-healthcare workplace settings which require regular and easy access to quality medical care.

Locum doctor salaries in the UK

Locum doctors in the UK can earn an average of £46,000. This value can go up to £88,000 based on experience, which is almost double the amount of beginner pay rate. Locum doctor shifts could range between an hourly rate of £80 and £150. In specific situations, locum doctors in the UK can even earn up to £600 an hour because of different medical specialties and their demands.

Here is a table outlining the different hourly rates for locum doctors in the UK, based on qualification and experience.

Can locum doctors earn more than full-time doctors?

A question many doctors have is if locum doctors can earn more than full-time doctors. If you are a new doctor looking for a locum role, then you will be able to earn more than a full-time equivalent. However, as you gain experience, there is not much of a difference in pay between a full-time doctor and locum doctor in the UK

How to apply for locum doctor jobs in the UK

There are two popular methods in which you can apply for locum doctor jobs in the UK. One is by applying though a reputed healthcare recruitment agency that is specialized in locum tenures. Recruitment agencies can provide locum jobs with high pay rates and is one of the best ways to apply for various locum positions.

The other method is to find locum jobs through a local locum chamber. These chambers are a great place to network with doctors looking for locum jobs and keep everyone informed on new locum jobs based on specific locations.

Locum contracts can vary from doing work over the weekend and go up to working several months, such as when covering maternity leave etc.

Conclusion

At Medfuture, we are committed to providing the best locum jobs with high pay rates and great flexibility to doctors. We constantly update our list of locum doctor jobs that vary throughout the year.

Visit our website to find out more details on the current locum doctor jobs in the UK.

Here are a few related articles for you to read:

Guide to working as a locum doctor in the UK

Top benefits of becoming a locum doctor in the UK