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Starting out as a Locum GP......

Many of us ( perhaps upto 50% or more, given the current job market ) will be looking for Locum GP posts immediately after finishing our training. So what are the things we need to be aware of ? 

I haven't found many useful resources to guide the inexperienced. Guess talking to another previous registrar who is locuming would be a good starting point. 

Here are some of my tips. My source of information is my wife who is working as a locum right now. I have learnt a few things over the past few weeks and would be adding more info as it comes...



What groundwork should I do before I start applying for locums? 

Simple and common sense : 

1. Make a CV and have it critiqued by your trainer. A lot of jobs are advertised on BMJ orHealthcarerepublic website. You can upload your CV and apply in an instant with minor changes that are job specific. Some doctors have their CVs done professionally (£100 or more)...not my cup of tea, but nothing wrong with it.

2. Networking : A lot of jobs are filled up without actually being advertised. Talking to people and making it known that you are available can be useful. I think doing OOH sessions helps to meet other doctors ( and potential employers) in your local area.

3. Make sure you have a recent CRB done, have your GMC certificateand your MPS/MDU subscription details at hand 

4. Find a good accountant. This I feel is quite important. Being a locum makes you self employed and there are things you can claim as expenses. Using the locum123 book ( see my review on this site) is helpful, but I found using an accountant a lot more efficient. You can claim their fee in your expenses when filing your tax return. It is important to find one before you start locuming as you will be one step ahead and start keeping your expense accounts, receipts, etc. They will also inform Inland Revenue on your behalf...an essential step as you would be changing from being an employee to self employed.

There are 3 ways of finding an accountant. One : google for medical accountants, email a few and find one you that sounds right. Two : use accountants who are registered with AISMA. These are well versed with medical issues but tend to be on the expensive side ( £400 plus vat upwards). Three : Find out from colleagues, especially the surgery you are training at. Which form do they use? What is their advice? I got mine this way and an quite with the service ( and the fee is reasonable too!).

I have got the locum. What next?

Coming soon 

Finished the first month of Locum..what next? 

Coming soon