How Do You Spell LOCUM TENENS?

Pronunciation: [lˈə͡ʊkəm tˈɛnənz] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the Latin-derived term for a temporary substitute physician, "locum tenens," is a common source of confusion. The first word, "locum," is pronounced /ˈloʊkəm/, and means "place" or "position." The second word, "tenens," is pronounced /ˈtɛnənz/, with the stress on the second syllable, and means "holding" or "occupying." Together, "locum tenens" is pronounced /ˈloʊkəm ˈtɛnənz/, with the stress on the first syllable of "tenens." This pronunciation is commonly Anglicized to "LOH-kum TEN-enz."

LOCUM TENENS Meaning and Definition

1. Locum tenens, derived from Latin, is a term used in the field of medicine to refer to a temporary substitute healthcare professional. More specifically, it describes a physician who fills in for another doctor or healthcare provider who is temporarily absent or unable to work due to various reasons such as illness, vacation, maternity leave, or a sabbatical. The term "locum tenens" literally translates to "holding the place of another" in Latin.

   A locum tenens physician is typically hired on a short-term basis, ranging from a few days to several months, to ensure the continuity of patient care in the absence of the primary healthcare provider. These temporary physicians have similar qualifications and experience as the regular practitioners in their respective fields and are capable of providing the same level of care, diagnosis, and treatment.

   The concept of locum tenens is widely used in various medical specialties, including primary care, emergency medicine, surgery, and specialty clinics. The arrangement provides flexibility to medical professionals, allowing them to take time off or pursue other professional interests without jeopardizing patient care. It also benefits healthcare facilities by maintaining productivity and patient satisfaction during the absence of regular providers.

   Overall, locum tenens plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry, ensuring seamless care delivery and enabling healthcare professionals to balance their work and personal lives effectively.

2. A substitute; a physician taking another's practice during the temporary absence or incapacity of the latter.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for LOCUM TENENS

• kocum tenens
• pocum tenens
• oocum tenens
• licum tenens
• lkcum tenens
• llcum tenens
• lpcum tenens
• l0cum tenens
• l9cum tenens
• loxum tenens
• lovum tenens
• lofum tenens
• lodum tenens
• locym tenens
• lochm tenens
• locjm tenens
• locim tenens
• loc8m tenens
• loc7m tenens

Etymology of LOCUM TENENS

The word "locum tenens" originates from Latin. "Locum" means "place" or "position", and "tenens" means "holding" or "occupying". Therefore, "locum tenens" can be translated as "holding the place" or "occupying the position". This term is commonly used in the medical field to refer to a temporary substitute or a doctor who fills in for another physician temporarily.