The first locum assignment involves more logistics than most physicians expect. Here's a practical walkthrough of what happens from the moment you accept an assignment to your first day on site.
Before you accept
Ask these questions before committing to any assignment:
- What is the exact scope of the role — inpatient, outpatient, or both?
- What are the call requirements?
- What is the patient volume and case mix?
- What EMR system does the facility use?
- What are the credentialing requirements and expected timeline?
- Is housing provided or reimbursed?
After you accept — what Falcon does
- Initiates credentialing immediately — state license, DEA, hospital privileges
- Books your travel — flights and rental car or ground transport
- Arranges furnished housing near the facility
- Coordinates with the facility on your start date and orientation schedule
- Provides your malpractice certificate before your first shift
Your first day
Expect a facility orientation — even if you're experienced, every hospital has its own credentialing check-in, EMR training, and department introduction process. Bring your license, DEA certificate, and a copy of your malpractice certificate. Your Falcon advisor will confirm all documents are in order before you arrive.
Getting paid
Submit your hours weekly through the timesheet process your Falcon advisor sets up. Payment is made weekly via direct deposit. Your first payment typically arrives 5–7 business days after your first week of work.
What most physicians say after their first assignment
The logistics feel overwhelming before — and straightforward after. The second assignment is significantly easier because the credentialing groundwork is already done in most cases. Many physicians find the first assignment opens a model they wish they'd started earlier.
Bottom line
- Ask the scope, call, and EMR questions before you commit
- Trust the process — Falcon manages the logistics
- Bring your documents on day one even if the agency has copies
- The second assignment is easier than the first