Working as a locum radiologist provides numerous advantages, not least the fact that there is a broad spectrum of work available, offering both career development and the opportunity to expand your experience. Radiology jobs for doctors are found all over the UK for professionals at all levels.

What are the advantages?

As it is both a diagnostic specialty and an interventional specialty, those working in radiography jobs are exposed to a broad spectrum of experiences, as well as having contact with a range of different departments across a hospital. As a radiologist working locum tenens jobs, this is a fairly unique opportunity to expand expertise and also gain exposure to a variety of organisational and management structures. There are also numerous other advantages to opting for radiologist jobs on a locum basis:

Rates of pay – currently, radiologist hourly rates via a locum recruitment agency such as Locum Vision are up to £125 an hour. Unlike an incumbent doctor, locums are paid for overtime and there is no obligation to work over contracted hours unless you agree to it.

Availability of work – the broad nature of radiography jobs can involve a wide range of reporting, from vascular radiology to pediatric radiology. It is an in demand skill set that is driven by the nature of being essential for other teams within the hospital, as well as a stand alone specialty. While some other specialties are harder to place for, the nature of radiology ensures that there is a more constant stream of work.

The occupation – as a specialty, radiology is particularly suited to those looking for locum work, not just because of the steady flow of work but also the nature of the job. Radiologists often have to deal with less intensive paperwork than other specialists, and are consulted on a very specific part of a patient’s case, which often makes it easier to step into a role that is not ongoing.

The positive nature of the job – radiologist work instantly shows results and the positive way in which specialists in this field are able to give an all clear, provide information to reveal a diagnosis or spot issues that can result in a patient receiving early treatment make for a more rewarding experience for a locum doctor than other specialties where results perhaps take longer and are less attributable to an individual.

Working as a locum radiologist

If you decide to switch to the locum radiologist life then there are some things to bear in mind when you’re planning your move.

Locuming can be long or short term – there are advantages to both and you’ll need to decide which suits you best. Short-term locuming, for example, offers great flexibility and you’re not tied to one location. Longer-term locuming, on the other hand, provides better opportunities for arranging appraisal for revalidation and the support of a team, even on a more temporary basis.

You can locum in a specialty in which you want to work but don’t yet – some doctors choose to take some radiology locum work, as this is a specialty they want to move into. This is a great way to get an idea of whether the specialism is for you and may help you get a job in that department in the future.

There are many different types of reporting categories for locum roles – it’s a good idea to clarify these before you start, to make sure you’re happy with them. Reporting types include CT, MRI, ultrasound, X-ray and sub-specialties such as MSK and breast.

Make sure you’re prepared for your switch to locum life – there’s a lot to think about when you’re starting out as a locum, from working out your new commutes and timekeeping, to ensuring you keep up with the paperwork. Accounting and taxes become your concern if you’re working as a locum and you also need to be able to move from one job to the next fairly flexibly and fluidly, which means being prepared to hit the ground running in each new location.

Choose the assignments carefully – picking the right assignment is a skill that locums soon learn, as this can have a big impact on your experiences on each placement. It’s important to consider factors such as how it works with your schedule, whether the compensation is at a level you’re happy with and will the job give you the experience that you’re looking for. Working with a specialist locum agency can make this considerably easier.

If you’d like more information on the radiologist roles available with Locum Vision, as well as advice on how to prepare for transitioning into the locum life, and how to start your application then please get in touch with a member of the team.

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