Packing for a one-week assignment is not a very easy thing to do. How about packing for six-month assignment?

When Dr Rodriguez was preparing for his six-month assignment at home in Miami, FL, he was trying to include everything he would need to have with him while providing coverage in upstate New York. He realized that the bulk of the items he would need to bring would be appropriate business clothing, but also needed to pack items to deal with temperature changes in the area.  He did not realize that all the items would add up to two full size suitcases. The first part of the travel preparation was complete. The second part would be getting the suitcases on the plane.

Upon arrival at the airport for his departure, Dr Rodriguez proceeded to unload the suitcases from his vehicle. The combination of the weight of the suitcase and an old motorcycle injury was all his shoulder needed to get aggravated.  Knowing that he had made a commitment to the facility to start on Monday morning, Dr Rodriguez did not hesitate to continue his travel plans. The pain in his shoulder would not keep him from fulfilling his commitment with facility.  He could work through the first day of pain since it was set aside for orientation and training.  His second day, however, did pose more of a challenge since he would be in a full clinic.  He discussed his injury with administration so they were aware he would not be at full speed the first couple of days.  The administration quickly scheduled an appointment with the orthopedic surgeon on staff.  He was seen almost immediately and was given the proper medication and opportunity to heal so he could be 100% and provide care without pain. 

We can plan ahead for traffic, travel delays, or weather.  What we often don't count on is last minute injuries slowing us down.  The client knew that without Dr Rodriguez being 100%, the patients would not get the best possible care.  Our facilities know the value of having a doctor for coverage and when a locums doctor was in pain, they do not hesitate to take care of them, either.