On Call for America: Strengthening Access Through Locum Tenens Providers

The House Committee on Education & Workforce held a hearing on June 10, 2026, focused on the role of locum tenens providers in addressing healthcare workforce shortages, particularly in rural areas. The discussion centered on the importance of these independent contractor clinicians in filling temporary gaps in care, such as maternity leave or specialist shortages, and the need for clear legal classification to protect their independent status. Witnesses highlighted that locum tenens providers offer flexibility and help maintain patient access where permanent staffing is challenging. However, concerns were raised about potential erosion of worker protections if these providers are misclassified or forced into employee status. The committee debated the balance between workforce flexibility and maintaining labor rights, with some members advocating for the Rural Healthcare Act (HR 8347) to clarify independent contractor status and support rural healthcare access. The hearing also touched on the impact of gig economy models in nursing, staffing shortages, and the financial and operational challenges faced by rural hospitals. No specific contract awards or procurement actions were discussed, but the policy implications could influence future healthcare staffing and contracting practices.