Onboarding tips for locum tenens: My guide to hit the ground running

My locum tenens onboarding checklist

1. Get documentation done early

One of the biggest lessons I learned early on is to submit all credentialing documents well ahead of time. If you miss a medical staff credentialing deadline, you risk delaying your start date by weeks. Send everything promptly to avoid last-minute bottlenecks.

2. Prep before day one

Before ever stepping into a new facility, I try to:

• • • Know where I should park and enter the building.
    • Confirm EMR login access and pharmacy credentials.
    • Save essential contact numbers and login info in one place on my phone for quick reference.

Strong pre-shift prep, for even the smallest details, can reduce first-day stressors and lets you focus on clinical work, rather than logistics.

3. Take advantage of site tours

If a site tour is available before or on your first day, take it! For me, knowing where key supply rooms, the PACU, ORs and even (let’s be honest) the coffee station are located gives me a huge confidence boost. Take advantage of any opportunities facilities offer that show you the lay of the land to help you acclimate faster.

4. Know the department expectations

Before the assignment starts, I always ask:

• • • What is the daily workflow like?
    • How large is the team?
    • Are there specific policies I should review ahead of time?

Getting these answers ahead of time help me show up feeling prepared and ready to contribute so I’m not overwhelmed.

How reputable agencies set you up for success

One of the biggest assets I’ve found in navigating locum tenens transitions is having strong support behind me — and that’s exactly what I’ve experienced with Aya Locums. From the moment I applied for my first assignment with them, the process felt manageable and transparent, which is absolutely critical when you’re tackling multiple new systems and workflows. With Aya Locums, I get:

Incredible recruiter support: I was paired with an amazing recruiter who has dialed in on my preferences, career goals and concerns. More on that below!

Documentation assistance: Their in-house teams work with me to collect documents, assist with state licensing and coordinate privileging and credentialing so I’m ready to go before my first shift.

Housing and travel logistics: They manage or reimburse housing and travel logistics, depending on the assignment, which removes a major layer of stress from onboarding and relocation.

My advice for new locum tenens

If you’re considering locum tenens for the first time, here are my top tips:

Plan smart and stay flexible.
I’ve heard too many stories of clinicians beginning preparation only to have dates shift because of a credentialing lag. So, I suggest waiting until your start date is confirmed before scheduling flights or housing.

Bring an open mind.
Every facility operates a little differently. Embrace learning the workflows and meeting new teams. Trust that you bring valuable skills wherever you go.

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