The healthcare industry continues to face tough challenges: ongoing provider shortages, rising clinician burnout, and growing pressure to maintain operations efficiently. To stay ahead, more facilities are turning to locum tenens physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs)—not just as a temporary fix, but as a smart, strategic move for long-term success. Here’s what current trends and data show—and why investing in locum PAs and NPs could benefit your organization.

The healthcare industry continues to face tough challenges: ongoing provider shortages, rising clinician burnout, and growing pressure to maintain operations efficiently.To stay ahead, more facilities are turning to locum tenens physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs)—not just as a temporary fix, but as a smart, strategic move for long-term success.Here’s what current trends and data show—and why investing in locum PAs and NPs could benefit your organization.<h3>Locum Staffing Is Becoming The Norm</h3>Locums are no longer a backup plan—they're a core part of many organizations’ staffing strategies.82% of healthcare facilities are using locum providers to fill open roles while they recruit permanent staff, according to Staffing Industry Analysts.That means nearly 4 out of 5 organizations already rely on this flexible staffing model—and the number is expected to grow.<h3>Demand Is Up And So Is Financial Opportunity</h3>Locum tenens roles are not just filling gaps; they’re growing rapidly.Locum advanced practice providers (APPs)—including NPs, PAs, and CRNAs—saw a 25% revenue increase year-over-year in early 2024.The global locum staffing market is projected to reach $14.6 billion by 2030, with a steady 7.6% annual growth rate.This signals strong demand for locum providers—and a clear opportunity for facilities that use them wisely.<h3>Clinicians Want Flexibility And Locum Work Delivers It</h3>The healthcare workforce is changing. Many clinicians are rethinking what their careers should look like.A recent Doximity survey showed that 63% of physicians are either currently working locum tenens or plan to in the next 5 years.Among nurse practitioners, 70% said they plan to pursue locum assignments, citing flexibility—especially around where and when they work—as a top reason.If your facility wants to attract top talent, locum roles are increasingly where that talent is looking.<h3>Why Facilities Are Leaning Into Locum Providers</h3>Locum PAs and NPs offer several clear advantages:<ul><li>Continuity of Care- They ensure patients receive consistent care during staffing shortages, recruitment gaps, or provider leaves.</li><li>Burnout Prevention- Locums can relieve pressure on your core team—helping reduce turnover and improve morale.</li><li>Revenue Protection- Strategic use of locums helps avoid service interruptions, which protects your bottom line and improves patient satisfaction.</li><li>Access to High-Performing Talent- Locum clinicians often bring experience, adaptability, and motivation—especially as more early-career providers seek non-traditional roles.</li><li>Built-In Scalability- Need to scale quickly during flu season or cover a sudden surge in patient volume? Locums make that possible without long-term overhead.</li></ul><h3>Locum PAs and NPs Are A Strategic Advantage</h3>For forward-thinking healthcare leaders, locum tenens providers aren’t just a convenience—they’re a competitive advantage.Whether your goal is improving retention, expanding services, or just keeping up with rising demand, locum PAs and NPs can help you stay flexible, efficient, and prepared.<h3>Ready To Strengthen Your Workforce Strategy?</h3>Want to turn this strategy into action? <a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/locums/client-solutions?utm_source=Website&amp;utm_campaign=Blog" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Let’s talk</a> about how locum tenens staffing can fit into your organization’s workforce plan.

Why Healthcare Facilities Should Consider Hiring Locum PAs and NPs

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