Why Are We Here?

Why are so many physicians exploring locum tenens, direct contracting, 1099 work, and other non-traditional ways to practice medicine?

In this opening presentation for the 2026 FlexMedStaff Summit, we examine the data behind a changing physician workforce, from declining autonomy and increasing clinical workload to burnout, compensation pressures, physician shortages, AI, and the rapid growth of locums.

The message is simple: physicians don’t necessarily need to leave medicine to change their careers.

There are other ways to practice.

Watch “Why Are We Here?” to understand the forces driving physicians to rethink the traditional career model—and why learning about locums, direct contracting, and independent practice may give physicians more options and greater control over their careers.

FlexMedStaff: Empowering Physicians Through Education.