Choosing the best locum tenens agency is more than finding a job — it’s about finding the right partner to support your career goals, preferences, and lifestyle. As you compare locum tenens agencies, consider what sets each one apart in terms of job volume, malpractice coverage, specialty support, digital tools, and more. From telehealth opportunities to international assignments and mission work, the right agency can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to evaluate — and how CompHealth and its sister agencies stand out across the board.

Top 11 locum tenens companies at a glance

Each of the best locum tenens agencies is unique, and each offers something different to healthcare professionals. Check out this overview below and then read on to find out why CompHealth has everything you need.

A guide to comparing locum tenens agencies

Choosing a locum tenens agency is more than finding a job — it’s about finding the right partner to support your career goals, preferences, and lifestyle. As you compare locum tenens agencies, consider what sets each one apart in terms of job volume, malpractice coverage, specialty support, digital tools, and more. From telehealth opportunities to international assignments and mission work, the right agency can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to evaluate — and how CompHealth and its sister agencies stand out across the board.

Number of jobs

One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a locum tenens agency is how many job opportunities the agency has. More jobs mean more options to fit your preferences — whether you want to work in a rural clinic or a large health system, stay close to home or travel across the country. It also means you’re more likely to find openings that match your specialty, schedule, and compensation expectations. Not all agencies have the same level of access to jobs, and many rely on job boards to source new openings. Agencies with deeper, long-standing connections in the industry often hear about opportunities first, giving their providers an edge.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

We staff both permanent and locums/travel positions across a range of practice settings, locations, and specialties. Thanks to decades-long partnerships with hospitals, health systems, and clinics nationwide, CompHealth often hears about openings before they’re posted publicly.

Malpractice offerings

Malpractice insurance is a must-have for any healthcare provider — and it’s important to understand how you’re covered when accepting a locum tenens assignment. Not all agencies offer malpractice coverage, and those that do may vary in the type of policy provided. Before working with an agency, ask what kind of coverage they provide, what it includes, and whether you’re responsible for any part of it.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

CompHealth provides malpractice coverage for all its locum tenens providers, typically through a claims-made policy. The company also understands how malpractice requirements vary by state and contract — and has the experience to adapt. In the event of a claim, CompHealth has deep in-house expertise to support providers throughout the malpractice claim process so clinicians can remain focused on delivering care. Learn more about CompHealth’s malpractice coverage.

Independent Contractor's Guide: How locums pay, malpractice, and taxes work

Access to telehealth positions

The rise of telehealth has created new opportunities for healthcare professionals to provide care remotely, offering greater flexibility, work-life balance, and the chance to reach patients in underserved areas. However, not all locum tenens agencies offer telehealth roles, and among those that do, the number and variety of opportunities can vary widely. If remote work is something you’re looking for, it’s important to ask whether an agency staffs telehealth positions, what specialties are included, and how licensure and technology requirements are handled.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

CompHealth offers a growing number of telehealth opportunities across a range of specialties. With its extensive client network and experience navigating state licensure and virtual care regulations, CompHealth is well-equipped to match clinicians with remote assignments that align with their skills and preferences.

Access to an online portal

An online portal may not seem like a top priority when choosing a locum tenens agency, but it can make a big difference in your day-to-day experience. A well-designed portal gives you 24/7 access to assignment details, travel itineraries, timesheets, licensing documents, and pay information — all in one place. It can streamline communication, reduce paperwork, and help you stay organized before, during, and after each assignment. Not all agencies offer this kind of digital access; among those that do, the features and usability vary widely.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

CompHealth offers a secure online portal and mobile app where providers can access assignment details, submit timesheets, manage travel information, and track important documents anytime, from any device. The portal is designed to simplify the locums experience, helping providers stay informed and on top of logistics. Combined with CompHealth’s personalized recruiter support, the portal adds convenience and control to every step of the locum tenens journey.

Check out these tools CompHealth offers: The myCompHealth online portal and app

Support finding a permanent job

While locum tenens assignments are temporary by nature, many healthcare providers are also interested in finding the right long-term fit. Some staffing agencies specialize only in short-term placements, while others offer support for finding permanent roles. Working with an agency to secure a permanent position can save time and stress, especially if you’re unfamiliar with a region, looking to relocate, or want help negotiating compensation and benefits. Recruiters can offer access to unlisted jobs, insight into employer culture, and guidance throughout the hiring process.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

In addition to locum tenens placements, CompHealth has extensive experience helping physicians find full-time roles nationwide. With long-standing relationships across a wide range of healthcare systems, hospitals, and clinics, CompHealth recruiters can match candidates with positions that align with their goals, preferences, and lifestyle. From interview prep to contract negotiation, CompHealth offers hands-on support every step of the way, making the permanent job search less overwhelming and more effective.

Availability of international locums positions

Opportunities to practice abroad can be both professionally rewarding and personally enriching for healthcare providers seeking to combine their clinical expertise with the adventure of international travel. However, not all staffing agencies offer international locum tenens placements, and navigating the complexities of international licensing, visa requirements, and healthcare systems can be daunting without experienced support. Providers interested in international opportunities should be sure to choose an agency with deep experience in global placements and the infrastructure to handle country-specific requirements and logistics.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

CompHealth’s sister agency, Global Medical Staffing, is the only locum tenens agency specializing exclusively in international placements. GMS offers assignments in diverse locations such as Australia, New Zealand, Guam, and the Caribbean. With decades of experience, they provide comprehensive support throughout the process, including assistance with licensing, credentialing, travel logistics, and understanding local healthcare practices.

Opportunity to participate in medical missions

Many healthcare providers are passionate about giving back through humanitarian work or medical missions. Still, it can be hard to know where to start — or how to make it work logistically. Some staffing agencies support these efforts by offering time off, sponsorships, or partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Providers interested in medical missions should look for an agency that actively encourages volunteerism and can connect them with credible organizations and resources.

Why CompHealth is a top choice:

CompHealth is under the CHG Healthcare umbrella, which partners with the Making a Difference Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping healthcare providers participate in medical humanitarian trips around the world. Through this partnership, CompHealth clinicians have access to resources and potential funding to support mission work in underserved communities. Whether you're looking to join an organized trip or plan your own, CompHealth supports your desire to make a global impact by helping you find meaningful opportunities to serve.

Interested in going on a medical mission? View upcoming medical missions through MADF

To experience the benefits of working with CompHealth, give us a call at 800.453.3030 or view today’s job opportunities in your specialty.