Can Physicians Freelance?

We've all heard about the internet guys who spend a few hours working on a laptop from the beach between yoga classes and coconut lattes. They live where they want and enjoy total control over their schedule. If only doctors could experience the same freedom…

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Well, my friends, I'm here to tell you we can!

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It's called Physician Freelancing. We decide when, where, and how much we work. Who wouldn't want that? The following are three easy ways doctors can freelance.

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Locum Tenens - Picture yourself skiing in Colorado or savoring world-class meals in Chicago on somebody else's dime. That's what locum tenens is all about. Locum firms are headhunters for doctors. You choose your schedule and where you'd like to work, and they'll find you the perfect short-term job. And best of all, they'll typically take care of your hotel, transportation, medical license, and credentialing. All you have to do is help patients and love life. (I created a Teachable Online Course on Locum Tenens. Use discount code FREELANCING to save $100)

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Per Diem - With per diem gigs, you fill in a day here or there at a clinic, hospital, or surgery center. You'll appreciate the flexibility, as you only work the days you choose. Schedules are typically made 1-3 months in advance, although sites will sometimes call you with short notice begging you to work. The one downside is that these jobs don't have a guaranteed minimum days per month, so you may go long stretches without work. Use the per diem strategy to pick up occasional days for extra income or combine several per diem jobs to replace your regular W2 job.

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Non-Medical Freelancing - Doctors, the world is your oyster. Beyond medicine, you can consult for startups, pharmaceutical companies, government, advisory boards, and charities. What fun! Your knowledge is in demand, and folks will pay for your expertise. Learn more about non-medical careers for doctors in my Audible audiobook, The Physician Wellness Project.

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In case you're wondering, freelancing is a fantastic option for anesthesiologists, internists, pediatricians, cardiologists, obstetricians, surgeons, and doctors of all medical specialties. You're in demand!

Don't feel stuck in your job. Don't let physician burnout get you down. Rather than leaving medicine or dreading work, give these a go. You deserve better.

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Your biggest fan,

Gregory Charlop, MD