News and briefs: Healthcare facilities use of locum tenens remains steady

In 2011, 75% of hospitals and other healthcare facilities used locum tenens to fill physician shortages at their facilities. According to a survey from Staff Care, this is the fifth consecutive year that at least three-quarters of healthcare facilities have used locum tenens.

Respondents said the average number of locums used is one to three per month. Using locums allowed the facilities to offer continuous treatment to a patient while looking for a permanent physician to fill that opening. The biggest drawback, according to respondents, is the cost.