Why Every Veterinary Practice Should Have a Locum Bank

As the veterinary industry continues to evolve, so do the staffing needs of practices across the UK. One emerging trend that’s gaining traction is the concept of a locum bank. But what exactly is a locum bank, and why should every practice have one?

Let’s dive in and explore the benefits with Molly Fiander, Director and Founder of Management For Locums and SA locum RVN.

What is a Locum Bank?

A locum bank is a pool of pre-vetted locum professionals who are readily available to fill temporary staffing gaps within a veterinary practice. These locums can include veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and other support staff who are qualified to step in and provide seamless care to patients when regular staff members are unavailable due to illness, vacation, or other reasons.

Why Should Practices Have a Locum Bank?

1. Flexibility and Adaptability: In today’s fast-paced veterinary environment, practices need to be agile and adaptable to meet the demands of their clients and patients. By having a locum bank in place, practices can quickly fill staffing gaps without compromising on the quality of care provided. This flexibility ensures that patient needs are met and that the practice can continue to operate smoothly, even during unexpected staffing shortages.
2. Maintaining Continuity of Care: Consistency is key when it comes to providing high-quality veterinary care. A locum bank allows practices to maintain continuity of care by ensuring that patients receive consistent treatment from familiar faces, even when regular staff members are unavailable. This helps to build trust and rapport with clients and ensures that patients receive the continuity of care they deserve.
3. Reducing Stress and Burnout: Staffing shortages can place immense pressure on existing team members, leading to stress, burnout, and decreased job satisfaction. By having a locum bank in place, practices can alleviate some of this pressure by ensuring that workload is evenly distributed and that team members have the support they need to thrive. This, in turn, can lead to a happier, healthier work environment for everyone involved.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in building a locum bank may seem daunting, the long-term cost savings can be significant. Rather than relying on expensive recruitment agencies or scrambling to find last-minute cover at premium rates, practices with a locum bank can access affordable, pre-vetted locum professionals who are already familiar with their practice and protocols.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a locum bank is a valuable asset for any veterinary practice looking to improve flexibility, maintain continuity of care, reduce stress and burnout, and achieve cost-effectiveness. By investing in a locum bank, practices can ensure that they have the staffing resources they need to thrive in today’s competitive veterinary landscape. So, if you haven’t already considered building a locum bank for your practice, now is the time to do so.

Your staff, your clients, and your patients will thank you for it.

‘Taking the llama-drama out of sourcing.
The MFL platform is revolutionising the locum management process, making it simple, streamlined, and cost-effective for all involved!

We have strong values of direct communication, trust-building, and innovation, which have driven us to create the UK’s largest community of locum veterinary professionals, who not only support one another, but work together to provide the best possible care to animals.’

To find out how MFL could help your staffing challenges, get in touch with Molly and her team info@managementforlocums.com or call 07412225220.