Describe your pre-medical and/or pre-locum work experience.

Most of my experience revolves around emergency medicine, critical care, and interventional radiology.

What drew you to locum tenens work?

I was attracted to locum tenens work due to my love for adventure, the opportunity to care for varied patient populations, and the freedom to manage my own work schedule.

Why did you choose to work with Wilderness Medical Staffing?

Another recruiting firm reached out to me, but during my exploration of locum tenens opportunities, I stumbled upon Wilderness Medical Staffing. My interaction with Tanner made it clear right away that this was the organization genuinely focused on my well-being and interests.

What have you enjoyed most about your locum tenens experiences?

My experience with the National Ski Patrol has fostered a keen interest in remote wilderness medicine. Combining my passion for adventure with medicine has been an ideal fit. I relish the thrill of adventure, engaging with diverse individuals, and making a meaningful contribution to populations who might otherwise lack access to the healthcare I can offer.

How has your experience been with WMS?

I’m immensely grateful for the WMS team. Their coordination of travel, constant communication with clients regarding upcoming assignments, and addressing concerns around the clock have been a tremendous source of stress relief. The entire team has consistently offered exceptional support throughout every assignment.

What surprised you most about your locum tenens experiences?

The individuals I’ve encountered have shifted my perspective. While I initially thought I was bringing valuable skills to the villages, what I’ve learned from them surpasses any contribution I could make.

What stands out to you about the communities and cultures you have interacted with as a locum tenens provider?

The sense of community is striking. In a time when we might not even know our next-door neighbors, witnessing communities operate as a unified entity has been remarkable. People from the villages have gone out of their way to ensure I had ample food, dropped by the clinic for a friendly greeting, and even extended invitations for me to go fishing.

What advice do you have for prospective locum tenens providers?

Approach cultural changes with openness, flexibility, and respect. Conducting prior research on the culture can offer a deeper understanding before arriving. Accessing these communities might pose challenges due to weather conditions and available resources. The more adaptable you are, the smoother your experience will likely be.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned while out on assignment?

I’ve experienced significant growth, both in my professional abilities and personally. Professionally, working in villages where resources are limited has expanded my skills beyond what a hospital setting offers. On a personal level, learning about diverse cultures has contributed to my individual growth, allowing me to integrate their beliefs into my own perspective.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I’m incredibly grateful to WMS for the exceptional service they provide. These distinctive opportunities have significantly enhanced my job satisfaction.