{"id":1573,"date":"2026-11-06T12:27:55","date_gmt":"2026-11-06T12:27:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/?p=1573"},"modified":"2026-10-30T12:32:12","modified_gmt":"2026-10-30T12:32:12","slug":"locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Locum Tenens Contract Guide: 9 Clauses to Review Before You Sign"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A locum tenens contract sets your pay, schedule, malpractice coverage, and exit rights for a temporary assignment. Before you sign one, review nine clauses: assignment scope, term, rates, worker classification, expenses, malpractice and tail coverage, cancellation, termination, and non-compete terms. The malpractice, cancellation, and non-compete clauses carry the most financial risk, so read those three twice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many clinicians skim a locum contract because the assignment is short. But a short assignment can still leave long obligations behind. This guide walks through each clause in plain English, with the questions worth asking before you put your name on anything.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#What_Does_a_Locum_Tenens_Contract_Cover_and_Who_Is_It_With\" >What Does a Locum Tenens Contract Cover, and Who Is It With?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#1_Does_the_Assignment_Scope_Match_What_You_Were_Told\" >1. Does the Assignment Scope Match What You Were Told?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#How_Are_Call_and_Extra_Hours_Handled\" >How Are Call and Extra Hours Handled?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#2_How_Long_Is_the_Term_and_What_Happens_at_the_End\" >2. How Long Is the Term, and What Happens at the End?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#3_Do_the_Locum_Contract_Rates_Add_Up_to_What_You_Expect\" >3. Do the Locum Contract Rates Add Up to What You Expect?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#When_Do_You_Actually_Get_Paid\" >When Do You Actually Get Paid?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#4_Are_You_an_Independent_Contractor_or_an_Employee\" >4. Are You an Independent Contractor or an Employee?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#5_Who_Pays_for_Travel_Lodging_and_Licensing_Costs\" >5. Who Pays for Travel, Lodging and Licensing Costs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#6_What_Malpractice_Coverage_Comes_With_the_Assignment_and_Who_Pays_for_Tail\" >6. What Malpractice Coverage Comes With the Assignment, and Who Pays for Tail?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Claims-Made_vs_Occurrence_Coverage\" >Claims-Made vs. Occurrence Coverage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Who_Does_the_Indemnification_Clause_Protect\" >Who Does the Indemnification Clause Protect?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#7_What_Does_the_Cancellation_Clause_Say_If_the_Facility_Cancels\" >7. What Does the Cancellation Clause Say If the Facility Cancels?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#What_Does_a_Balanced_Clause_Look_Like\" >What Does a Balanced Clause Look Like?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#8_How_Can_Either_Side_End_the_Contract_Early\" >8. How Can Either Side End the Contract Early?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#9_Does_the_Contract_Include_a_Locum_Non-Compete_or_Non-Solicitation_Clause\" >9. Does the Contract Include a Locum Non-Compete or Non-Solicitation Clause?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#What_Is_the_Legal_Picture_Right_Now\" >What Is the Legal Picture Right Now?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Which_Wording_Should_You_Question\" >Which Wording Should You Question?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Which_Locum_Contract_Terms_Can_You_Actually_Negotiate\" >Which Locum Contract Terms Can You Actually Negotiate?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#What_Should_You_Do_Before_You_Sign\" >What Should You Do Before You Sign?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Your_Next_Step_Before_You_Sign\" >Your Next Step Before You Sign<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Locum_Tenens_Contract_FAQs\" >Locum Tenens Contract FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Is_a_Recruiters_Email_the_Same_as_a_Signed_Contract\" >Is a Recruiter\u2019s Email the Same as a Signed Contract?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Can_I_Work_With_More_Than_One_Locum_Agency_at_the_Same_Time\" >Can I Work With More Than One Locum Agency at the Same Time?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Do_I_Get_Paid_If_the_Clinic_Closes_or_Patient_Volume_Drops\" >Do I Get Paid If the Clinic Closes or Patient Volume Drops?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#What_If_My_Credentialing_or_License_Isnt_Finished_by_the_Start_Date\" >What If My Credentialing or License Isn\u2019t Finished by the Start Date?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#Should_a_Lawyer_Review_My_Locum_Contract\" >Should a Lawyer Review My Locum Contract?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/locum-tenens-contract-guide-9-clauses-to-review\/#How_Much_Time_Should_I_Have_to_Review_the_Contract\" >How Much Time Should I Have to Review the Contract?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_a_Locum_Tenens_Contract_Cover_and_Who_Is_It_With\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Does a Locum Tenens Contract Cover, and Who Is It With?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your contract is usually with the staffing agency, not the hospital or clinic where you\u2019ll work. The agency has a separate agreement with the facility, and you rarely see it. Some of the facility\u2019s rules, like cancellation terms or credentialing deadlines, still flow down into your paperwork.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask the recruiter which facility terms apply to you, and ask for them in writing. Then read the nine clauses below in order.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Does_the_Assignment_Scope_Match_What_You_Were_Told\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Does the Assignment Scope Match What You Were Told?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with the clause that describes the work. A recruiter may say outpatient clinic, four days a week, while the contract says duties as assigned by the facility. Those can be very different jobs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check the location, specialty, schedule, weekly hours, patient volume, supervision, and EHR system. If key details live only in an email, ask the agency to attach them to the contract.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Are_Call_and_Extra_Hours_Handled\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Are Call and Extra Hours Handled?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look for how call is scheduled and paid, and whether hours beyond the baseline earn overtime or a higher rate. If the contract is silent, extra hours may go unpaid.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_How_Long_Is_the_Term_and_What_Happens_at_the_End\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. How Long Is the Term, and What Happens at the End?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirm the start date, end date, and whether the contract renews automatically. Auto-renewal can lock you into another block of time, so note any opt-out deadline. Also read the extension language. Does extending keep your rate, or reopen the negotiation?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assignment length limits can vary by facility and state, so ask whether yours could hit one. Our guide on<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/how-long-can-locum-tenens-work\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how long locum tenens can work<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> explains how assignment length and extensions typically play out.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Do_the_Locum_Contract_Rates_Add_Up_to_What_You_Expect\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Do the Locum Contract Rates Add Up to What You Expect?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locum contract rates should appear as exact numbers: hourly, daily, or flat, with separate figures for call, holidays, and overtime. \u201cCompetitive rate\u201d is not a rate.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then run the math on the whole package: hours times rate, plus call pay, plus any guaranteed minimum, minus costs you\u2019ll cover yourself. A higher hourly rate with no guarantee and unreimbursed travel can pay less than a lower rate with both.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Do_You_Actually_Get_Paid\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When Do You Actually Get Paid?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find the pay cycle and what triggers payment, which is usually approved timesheets. Ask what happens if the facility is slow to sign off. For the bigger picture on rates, taxes, and benefits, read<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/how-does-locum-tenens-pay-and-salary-work\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how locum tenens pay and salary work<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Are_You_an_Independent_Contractor_or_an_Employee\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Are You an Independent Contractor or an Employee?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many locum clinicians are paid as 1099 contractors, while others are W-2 employees of the agency. That difference affects your taxes, benefits, and sometimes your insurance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The IRS doesn\u2019t treat a job title as the answer. It looks at how much control the payer has over your work, how the money side is handled, and what the written agreement and the day-to-day relationship show. A contract that simply labels you a contractor isn\u2019t enough on its own. If your contract calls you a contractor but dictates your hours and methods, ask why. The<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/taxtopics\/tc762\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IRS guidance on independent contractor vs. employee status<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a good starting point, and a CPA can explain what your classification means for your return.<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/newsroom\/understanding-employee-vs-contractor-designation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Who_Pays_for_Travel_Lodging_and_Licensing_Costs\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Who Pays for Travel, Lodging and Licensing Costs?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">List every cost and mark who covers it: flights, rental car or mileage, housing, meals, state license fees, and credentialing fees. Then check the reimbursement rules. Some contracts cap expenses, require receipts within a set number of days, or only pay for pre-approved bookings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One detail people miss is what happens to nonrefundable tickets or a lease if the assignment is cancelled before you start. That question leads straight to clause 7.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_What_Malpractice_Coverage_Comes_With_the_Assignment_and_Who_Pays_for_Tail\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. What Malpractice Coverage Comes With the Assignment, and Who Pays for Tail?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your contract should state the type of coverage, the limits, and who pays for tail coverage. A vague answer here can cost the most later.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Claims-Made_vs_Occurrence_Coverage\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Claims-Made vs. Occurrence Coverage<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An occurrence policy covers incidents that happen during the policy period, no matter when the claim is filed. A claims-made policy only responds if it\u2019s active when the claim is filed. If a claims-made policy ends with your assignment, you need tail coverage, also called an extended reporting endorsement, to stay protected for later claims. Don\u2019t assume tail is handled for you. The contract itself should spell out whether you need it and whether you or the agency pays for it.<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/tafpc.com\/healthcare-employment-contracts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask three direct questions. Is the policy claims-made or occurrence? Is tail included, and at whose expense? What are the per-claim and total limits?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Does_the_Indemnification_Clause_Protect\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who Does the Indemnification Clause Protect?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An indemnification clause decides who pays when a claim or loss arises. Watch for one-sided wording that makes you responsible for the agency\u2019s or facility\u2019s own errors. This is a good clause to have an attorney read.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_What_Does_the_Cancellation_Clause_Say_If_the_Facility_Cancels\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. What Does the Cancellation Clause Say If the Facility Cancels?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A cancellation clause sets the notice and any payment owed when someone calls off an assignment. In many contracts, it covers pulling out before the start date, while termination covers ending an assignment already underway. Check how yours draws that line.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look for four things: the notice the facility must give, whether you\u2019re paid for booked days, whether documented nonrefundable costs are reimbursed, and what happens if you cancel.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_a_Balanced_Clause_Look_Like\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Does a Balanced Clause Look Like?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notice periods that apply to both sides, reimbursement for documented costs, and no penalty for cancellations outside your control. Cancellation terms are often firm because they mirror the agency\u2019s deal with the facility. Your best move is to understand them before you book travel.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_How_Can_Either_Side_End_the_Contract_Early\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. How Can Either Side End the Contract Early?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look for termination with cause and without cause. Without-cause termination usually requires written notice, so check how many days. With-cause termination should define cause. A phrase like \u201cunprofessional conduct\u201d with no definition gives the other side wide room.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask for a cure period, which is a short window to fix a problem before the contract ends. Also confirm you\u2019ll be paid for all work through your last day, and when that final payment arrives.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Does_the_Contract_Include_a_Locum_Non-Compete_or_Non-Solicitation_Clause\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Does the Contract Include a Locum Non-Compete or Non-Solicitation Clause?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many do, though they differ from a typical employee non-compete. A locum non-compete often bars you from working directly for the facility, or its affiliates, for a set period after the assignment ends. Some add fees if the facility hires you directly. The goal is to keep the agency from being cut out of future placements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Legal_Picture_Right_Now\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is the Legal Picture Right Now?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-competes are mostly governed by state law. In September 2025, the FTC gave up its court fight to revive a nationwide non-compete ban. It also contacted healthcare employers and staffing firms about tightening up restrictive terms. This<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wiley.law\/alert-FTC-Takes-on-Noncompete-Agreements-as-New-State-Laws-Take-Effect\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">analysis of the FTC\u2019s September 2025 actions<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> covers the details. States are moving too. Utah went further. A law that took effect on May 6, 2026 removes most non-competes for healthcare workers. Rules differ by state, so check yours.<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wiley.law\/alert-FTC-Takes-on-Noncompete-Agreements-as-New-State-Laws-Take-Effect\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Wording_Should_You_Question\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which Wording Should You Question?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look at the duration, the geography, which entities are covered, and whether there\u2019s a buyout. A multi-year or statewide restriction for a short assignment deserves pushback. An attorney can tell you whether it would hold up where you\u2019ll work. This guide is general information, not legal advice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Locum_Contract_Terms_Can_You_Actually_Negotiate\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which Locum Contract Terms Can You Actually Negotiate?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some terms bend more than others. This table shows where clinicians commonly find room, though individual contracts vary.<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Usually More Flexible<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Usually Firmer<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start date and schedule details<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malpractice limits tied to the agency\u2019s policy<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rate, call pay, and guarantees<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facility-driven cancellation notice<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expense caps and reimbursement timing<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indemnification language<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extension terms<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Credentialing requirements<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-solicit scope and buyout<\/span><\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spend your negotiating effort on the left column and plan around the right. Ask early, and get any change in writing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_You_Do_Before_You_Sign\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Should You Do Before You Sign?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Request the full contract, including every exhibit, not a summary.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compare it line by line with the recruiter\u2019s offer email.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mark blanks, vague phrases like \u201cas assigned,\u201d and any deadlines.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Send your questions in writing and keep the replies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have an attorney review the malpractice, indemnification, and non-compete clauses.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep a fully signed copy.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Next_Step_Before_You_Sign\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your Next Step Before You Sign<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A good locum tenens contract should clearly outline dates, pay, coverage, and exit terms. If any of these nine areas feels unclear, ask for written clarification before signing. When you&#8217;re ready to explore your options,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/job-list\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">browse open locum jobs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to find assignments that fit your goals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Locum_Tenens_Contract_FAQs\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locum Tenens Contract FAQs<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_a_Recruiters_Email_the_Same_as_a_Signed_Contract\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is a Recruiter\u2019s Email the Same as a Signed Contract?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No. An email shows intent, but the signed contract is what governs, and it may say something different. If the two don\u2019t match, get the contract corrected before you sign.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_Work_With_More_Than_One_Locum_Agency_at_the_Same_Time\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I Work With More Than One Locum Agency at the Same Time?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Often yes, but check for an exclusivity clause first. Some contracts limit where else you can work during the assignment, or prevent two agencies from submitting you to the same facility.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_Get_Paid_If_the_Clinic_Closes_or_Patient_Volume_Drops\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do I Get Paid If the Clinic Closes or Patient Volume Drops?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only if the contract says so. Look for guaranteed hours, minimum pay, or language covering closures, low census, and sick days. If it\u2019s missing, ask.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_If_My_Credentialing_or_License_Isnt_Finished_by_the_Start_Date\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What If My Credentialing or License Isn\u2019t Finished by the Start Date?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check whether the contract treats that as a cancellation, a delay, or your breach. It should say who is responsible for delays and what you\u2019re owed, if anything, if the start date moves.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_a_Lawyer_Review_My_Locum_Contract\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Should a Lawyer Review My Locum Contract?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For high-stakes clauses like tail coverage, indemnification, and non-competes, it\u2019s worth it. A one-time review costs little compared with a surprise tail bill or a restriction you didn\u2019t understand.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Time_Should_I_Have_to_Review_the_Contract\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Much Time Should I Have to Review the Contract?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enough to ask questions and get answers. If you\u2019re pressured to sign within hours, slow down. A reasonable agency will give you time to read the full document.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A locum tenens contract sets your pay, schedule, malpractice coverage, and exit rights for a temporary assignment. Before you sign [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1576,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[27],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1573","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-locum-tenens"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1573","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1573"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1573\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1575,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1573\/revisions\/1575"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1576"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1573"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1573"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1573"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}