Jeff Decker on physician flexibility
From Why More Physicians are Choosing Locum Tenens with Jeff Decker | Ep. 18 | Full Episode · · Elevate Care
“97% of the physicians and advanced practice providers surveyed talked about physician freedom and flexibility as the most rewarding aspects of working locum tenens. This flexibility allows them to live a professional life they want and also enhance their personal lives.”
On , Jeff Decker, Division President of Physician & Leadership Solutions at AMN HEALTHCARE SERVICES INC, spoke about physician flexibility during Why More Physicians are Choosing Locum Tenens with Jeff Decker | Ep. 18 | Full Episode on Elevate Care.
About Jeff Decker
In an October 2024 appearance on the podcast *Elevate Care*, Jeff Decker discussed trends in locum tenens work based on an annual survey conducted by AMN Healthcare. Decker stated that approximately 60,000 physicians now work locum tenens annually, more than double the number from 10 to 15 years ago, and attributed the increase to physicians seeking a different and better work experience. He cited survey findings that 97% of respondents valued flexibility, 86% cited reduced bureaucracy, and 80% said addressing burnout was a reason for choosing locum tenens. Decker also noted that 81% of physicians and advanced practice providers are considering locum tenens earlier in their careers, including right out of training, driven by a growing emphasis on flexibility and diverse work experience. Decker also discussed the role of technology in recruitment, stating that AI tools are reducing the time to find suitable candidates from weeks to days by matching candidates based on skill sets and preferences. He noted that Vendor Management Systems help health systems manage contracts and independent contractors, streamlining orders and compliance while reducing labor costs. Decker emphasized that faster placement of locum tenens providers is critical for healthcare facilities that often stretch internal staff beyond capacity before seeking help.