How to Become a Medical Contractor

Medical contractors are qualified medical professionals contracted to work in hospitals and medical clinics on an assignment-by-assignment basis. Medical contractors are either independent, self-employed individuals who develop a client base or are agency-employed to undertake individual assignments. Typically, medical contractors are experienced professionals who are well respected in their field.

Instructions

1. Gain a medical qualification. The type of qualification depends on your level of academic qualifications and interests. Examples include therapist, pharmacist and medical secretary. There is also registered nurse, LPN or LVN. Typically, you need to undertake three to seven years of study.

2. Gain work experience. Medical contractors are normally experienced medical professionals with three or more years of work experience. Recent graduates are unlikely to gain employment because they lack expertise.

3. Develop a strategy. Think about whether you want to become contracted with an agency or be an independent contractor. Agency workers are guaranteed regular work, but independent contractors typically earn more because they do not lose income in agency finder's fees.

4. Sign up for agencies or register as self-employed. Take your resume to agencies, explain your experience and desired work and complete the agency's registration process. Signing up with more than one agency increases your chances of finding regular work. Alternatively, contact your local employment or tax office and ask about how to register as self-employed.

5. Improve your knowledge. Continue to attend training sessions to keep up-to-date with the latest medical developments. This helps you gain contacts for your contract work.

Tips & Warnings

• The most successful medical contractors are specialists in a specific medical issue or disease.

• If you are self-employed, remember that you need to complete tax return forms.

• Plan ahead. Thus, if you have a work slowdown, you can still support yourself.

References

• Independent Nurse Contractor: How to become a self employed independent nurse
• Independent Registered Nurse Contractor: Home