Why Is the IMLC Ideal for Locum Tenens Physicians?
Locum tenens and contract-based physicians often move between facilities, states, and assignments with little notice. Traditional licensing can’t keep up — but the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) can. It gives qualified physicians the ability to secure licenses in multiple states quickly, without repetitive applications or red tape.
How Does the IMLC Help With Job Flexibility?
With an active Letter of Qualification (LOQ), you can:
- Accept short-term assignments in any compact member state
- Respond to urgent staffing needs without long licensing waits
- Maintain multiple active state licenses with centralized credentialing
This allows you to say “yes” to more contracts — and get paid faster.
How Fast Can You Get a New State License?
Once your LOQ is issued, new state licenses often arrive within 1 to 7 business days after submitting payment. That’s a game-changer for recruiters and employers working on tight timelines, especially in hospitalist, ER, and telemedicine placements.
Does It Help With Telehealth Contracts Too?
Absolutely. Many locum providers are now delivering care remotely. The IMLC supports both in-person and virtual practice across state lines — enabling hybrid and remote contracts to move forward legally and quickly.
What Are the Most Common Use Cases?
Physicians in the following locum or contract roles often benefit most from the IMLC:
- Hospitalists moving between regional systems
- ER and urgent care float physicians
- Telemedicine clinicians covering multiple states
- Anesthesiologists or surgeons assisting in high-demand areas
- Specialists offering coverage during sabbaticals or seasonal surges
Can Agencies Use the IMLC on Your Behalf?
No. Your licensing status is personal. Recruiters and staffing firms can assist with the process — and may even reimburse fees — but you must hold the license yourself. It’s your responsibility to apply, track, and renew each license.
How Does the IMLC Save Time During Credentialing?
Once you’re licensed in multiple states, your paperwork becomes easier to reuse. Many locum agencies store your core credentials and only require supplemental documents for new assignments. This creates a seamless rotation between states, especially when paired with credentialing services or cloud-based document management.
Are There Any Limitations?
Yes. The IMLC:
- Doesn’t cover non-participating states
- Requires annual or biennial renewal per state
- Does not include automatic malpractice coverage (coordinate this separately)
It’s also important to understand each state's supervision or collaborative practice laws if you're working in a team-based model.
Tips for Contract Physicians Using the IMLC
- Get your LOQ as soon as possible — you can add states anytime
- Focus on high-demand states with favorable pay or volume
- Track license renewal dates carefully — they won’t align
- Use a digital credentialing service to centralize paperwork
Final Thoughts
For locum tenens and contract-based physicians, the IMLC is more than a convenience — it’s a business advantage. It unlocks more contracts, increases negotiating power, and simplifies multi-state compliance. With one core application, you can turn flexibility into opportunity — and opportunity into income.