Locum tenens opportunities in gastroenterology continue to grow as hospitals and practices work to manage rising procedural demand, physician shortages, and expanding colorectal cancer screening recommendations. For physicians, locums work can offer flexibility, schedule control, and exposure to different practice environments.

But not every assignment is structured the same.

Two opportunities may appear similar on paper while offering completely different day-to-day experiences once the assignment begins. Before committing to a position, gastroenterologists should have a clear understanding of expectations surrounding procedures, call, workflow, and support staff.

Here are five important questions to ask before accepting a locums gastroenterology assignment.

1. What Does the Daily Schedule Actually Look Like?

A “Monday through Friday” schedule can mean very different things depending on the facility.

Physicians should clarify:

• Procedure days versus clinic days
• Average daily patient volume
• Whether inpatient consults are included
• Start and end times
• Expected turnaround between procedures
• APP involvement and support

Understanding the true workflow helps prevent surprises after arrival and gives physicians a better sense of the assignment’s pace and efficiency.

2. What Procedures Are Expected?

Not every gastroenterology assignment requires the same procedural scope.

Before accepting an opportunity, physicians should understand whether the facility expects:

• Standard colonoscopy and EGD only
• ERCP coverage
• EUS procedures
• GI bleed call coverage
• PEG placement or other advanced procedures

Advanced endoscopy expectations should always be clearly defined upfront to avoid misalignment once coverage begins.

3. How Is Call Structured?

Call coverage is often one of the biggest factors influencing physician satisfaction on a locums assignment.

Important questions include:

• Is call required?
• How often?
• Is it phone call or in-house coverage?
• Are overnight returns common?
• How frequently are emergent procedures performed?
• Is there APP or physician backup available?

A “light call” schedule can mean very different things at different facilities, making specifics especially important.

4. What Support Staff Is Available?

Efficient GI practices depend heavily on strong clinical and procedural support teams.

Physicians should ask about:

• Endoscopy nursing support
• CRNA or anesthesia availability
• APP coverage
• Scope technicians
• Medical assistants
• Scheduling and administrative support

Even experienced physicians can struggle in environments with inconsistent staffing or limited procedural support.

5. Why Is the Facility Seeking Locums Coverage?

This question often provides valuable insight into the overall stability and structure of the assignment.

Facilities may need locums’ coverage due to:

• Physician retirement
• Recruiting gaps
• Growing procedural demand
• Leave coverage
• Unexpected turnover

Understanding the reason behind the need can help physicians better evaluate expectations, workload, and the potential for ongoing opportunities.

A successful locums gastroenterology assignment depends on more than compensation alone. Workflow expectations, procedural scope, staffing support, and call structure all play a major role in determining whether an assignment will be productive and professionally rewarding.

Asking thoughtful questions early in the process helps physicians evaluate opportunities more effectively and creates better experience for both the provider and the facility.