Synonyms of locum tenens

locum tenens

noun

ˈlō-kəm-ˈtē-ˌnenz 

as in replacement

a person or thing that takes the place of another

I'm just a locum tenens, so any major decisions should be deferred until your regular doctor returns from vacation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• replacement
• substitute
• backup
• pinch hitter
• designated hitter
• surrogate
• sub
• assistant
• cover
• relief
• stand-in
• reserve
• fill-in
• proxy
• alternate
• deputy
• delegate
• second
• attorney
• apology
• representative
• assignee
• factor
• agent
• makeshift
• rep
• successor
• stopgap
• envoy
• commissary
• procurator
• superseder
• understudy
• reliever

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of locum tenens

Staffing challenges during this period led to Saint Alphonsus leaning heavily on locum tenens physicians — traveling doctors assigned by specialized agencies to fill shifts on a contract basis — for its trauma department. — Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 16 July 2026

In healthcare, roughly 7% to 8% of physicians now work in locum tenens arrangements, that is, temporary placements that offer high hourly rates and no long-term benefits, according to CHG Healthcare. — Joseph Coughlin, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2026

Forecasts from industry analysts suggest that per diem opportunities, or the ability for healthcare workers to fill in for shifts as needed, will expand, as will the utilization of locum tenens. — Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2024

When Whittingham stepped in as Meyer’s replacement in 2005, there were holes in the program after an undefeated season, and there were many lessons for the locum tenens to learn. — Gordon Monson, The Salt Lake Tribune, 12 Nov. 2021

When service units are forced to hire temporary locum tenens physicians in lieu of decreasing services, the quality of care can change dramatically. — WSJ, 17 July 2017