Become a locum GP

What is a locum GP?

A locum GP is a self-employed doctor who works on a temporary basis for different GP practices or out-of-hours services. You step in to cover short-term staffing needs, such as holidays, sickness, or recruitment gaps.

As a locum, you are not an employee of the practice. Instead, you operate as an independent contractor, setting your own rates and choosing where and when you work. This offers significant freedom and variety compared to a permanent role.

The benefits of being a locum GP

Working as a locum offers unparalleled flexibility and the chance to shape your career exactly how you want it. It's a modern way to practice medicine that puts you in control.

Enjoy ultimate flexibility

You have full control over your working schedule. You choose the days, hours, and even the practices you work for. This allows you to fit your professional life around your personal commitments, hobbies, or other career interests.

Potential for higher earnings

Locum GPs often command higher hourly or sessional rates than salaried GPs. You can negotiate your fees directly with practices. This provides the opportunity for increased income, especially if you are willing to work in areas or at times of high demand.

Experience a wide variety of settings

Working in different practices exposes you to diverse patient populations, clinical systems, and ways of working. This broadens your experience, sharpens your adaptability, and helps you learn best practices from a range of environments.

Reduce long-term commitment and stress

You avoid the long-term commitments of a permanent contract, such as: 

• ongoing administrative tasks
• partnership responsibilities
• involvement in practice politics

You can focus purely on your clinical work during your booked sessions.

What to expect in your role

Working as a locum requires strong organisational skills and a proactive approach to managing your own professional life.

Key responsibilities often include:

• Managing your diary—Booking your own sessions and planning your travel between practices.
• Invoicing and finances—You are responsible for sending invoices, managing your income, and paying your own tax through self-assessment.
• Professional compliance—This includes arranging your own medical indemnity, maintaining your GMC revalidation, and making sure you meet all professional standards.
• Finding work—Actively seeking out opportunities, either directly with practices, through agencies, or via online platforms.

This independent way of working puts you in charge of your GP career.

Working in a GP out of hours service

For a locum GP, out-of-hours work is a core component of a flexible career. You can book OOH shifts directly with the service. This allows you to build a work schedule that fits your lifestyle, including evenings and weekends.

Before you start GPOOH work

Working OOH in Scotland is straightforward. You just need to be aware of a few practical points:

• Performers’ List—To work in any GP role in Scotland, you must be on a health board's Performers' List.
• Indemnity cover—Locum GPs in Scottish OOH services are NOT covered by the state-backed CNORIS indemnity scheme for that work.
• Flexibility—OOH shifts offer flexibility, particularly for work during evenings and weekends.

Find out more about GPOOH services in Scotland.

Remote and rural opportunities for locum GPs

Demand for locums in rural Scotland is very high, often with excellent rates. This offers a fantastic way to explore different parts of the country. Practices frequently include travel and accommodation costs as part of the package.

Discover more about working in remote and rural areas:

• GP Jobs: Rural practice
• Scottish Rural Medicine Collaborative
• Rural GP Association of Scotland

Find out more about the National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care.

Is a locum role right for you?

This career path is ideal for those who value independence and a flexible working life.

A locum GP role could be a good fit if you:

• are highly organised, self-motivated, and good at managing your time
• thrive on variety and adapting to new environments quickly
• want to control your income potential and work-life balance
• are comfortable with managing your own business and financial affairs
• prefer to focus solely on clinical patient care without practice administration

If these points resonate with you, a locum career could be an excellent choice.

Locum GP vs salaried GP

To help you make an informed career decision, it's useful to see a direct comparison between the locum GP and salaried GP roles.

The best career is the one you design for yourself. Think about what matters most to you.

How to find locum work

There are several ways to connect with practices looking for locum cover.

To find opportunities, you can:

1. Use online platforms—Websites like GP Jobs list available sessions.
2. Contact practices directly—Build relationships with local practices you enjoy working with.
3. Network—Connect with other locums and practice managers through professional groups or your LMC.

Building a good reputation for reliability and quality care is key to securing ongoing work.

Related content

The following resources provide valuable information and support for Locum GPs:

• BMA—Find guidance on competition law and locum GPs.
• RCGP—Discover continuing professional development and revalidation support.
• GP Jobs—For sessional GP vacancies that might suit locum work.

These resources offer essential tools and guidance for building a successful locum GP career.