We speak with Dr Emily Doyle and ask her how it has been to work locum with Medic Oncall.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Table of Contents
Why did you decide to become a locum doctor?
I was looking to have a break from the grind of the training conveyor belt – I then enjoyed myself so much I’ve been locumming on and off ever since!
What attracted you to locum?
A simple recommendation from a friend.
Think back to when you first registered with Medic Oncall, how was the overall process from registering to getting your first locum shift?
There’s no easy way around it, registering as a locum requires lots of paperwork, certifying documents and chasing referees. It’s a bit of a process. Sorry!
What do you think makes a great locum doctor?
Flexibility and a positive attitude.
What have you learned about yourself through the locum work that you do?
I’ve had so many different experiences, from private cosmetic clinics to flying in tiny planes to oncology outreach clinics in the Northern Territory. All of this adds up to a more rounded doctor, and I’ve learned that there’s much more to a career in medicine than the simple med school –> intern –> training –> specialist pathway.
What are the three main benefits of working as a locum?
1- Ultimate flexibility over your schedule and type of work.
2 – Interesting work.
3 – Good pay rates.
How has locum work affected your personal life and work-life balance?
Work/life balance is undoubtedly the biggest perk of being a locum. You can schedule holidays on a whim, make it to all of your friends’ weddings, or take a week off whenever you like!
What should doctors be looking out for when searching for a locum work provider?
Good communication – you want someone who is always going to reply to you (and liaise with hospitals on your behalf), and make sure they have a range of work that is relevant to your skills.
Can you tell us about your most memorable location you have worked at as a locum? Why was it so memorable?
Too many to list. Darwin was a great place to work, then I was asked to fly to Katherine for the day to do a clinic (in a teeny tiny aeroplane!). There’s also been some beautiful spots in Northern NSW and QLD – Bellingen, Mackay etc.
What advice do you have for new doctors?
Number 1 tip – always ask questions about a job before you accept it. You don’t want to get caught out in a role that’s higher than your skill or comfort level eg. a job advertised as simple “ED RMO” could potentially mean you’re the sole doctor overnight in a hospital, running the show.
At Medic Oncall, we specialise in clinical and non-clinical solutions for healthcare providers, government, corporate and event organisations.
As a leading provider of healthcare services, locum doctor staffing, and medical workforce management, we are committed to finding solutions that work for our doctors and our clients.
To join Dr Emily Doyle and the many doctors working locum around Australia & New Zealand, register with us today!
