Locum MD (Medical Doctor), DO (Osteopathic Doctor) Cardiothoracic Surgery

Description

This on-site, contract position offers an exceptional opportunity for an Associate-level physician to deliver high-impact surgical care while enjoying a flexible locum schedule within a supportive and clinically excellent environment.

As a Locum Cardiothoracic Surgeon, you will step into a vital role within our Cardiothoracic Surgery department, providing comprehensive surgical management for patients with complex heart and chest conditions. You will work alongside a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, physician assistants, and nursing professionals committed to evidence-based medicine and outstanding patient outcomes. This role is ideal for a physician who thrives in a fast-paced clinical setting and values the flexibility and professional variety that locum tenens assignments provide.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive pre-operative evaluations, including patient history review, diagnostic imaging interpretation, and surgical risk assessment for cardiothoracic patients.
• Conduct and assist in a wide range of cardiothoracic surgical procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair and replacement, and thoracic resections.
• Collaborate closely with anesthesiologists, perfusionists, and surgical nursing teams to ensure optimal intra-operative patient management and safety.
• Manage post-operative care, including intensive care unit (ICU) follow-up, monitoring for complications, and coordinating step-down care plans.
• Provide timely and accurate documentation of surgical findings, procedures, and patient progress in the electronic medical record (EMR) system.
• Offer consultative services to referring physicians and emergency departments for patients presenting with acute cardiothoracic conditions.
• Participate in on-call rotation coverage as required, ensuring 24/7 surgical availability during assigned locum periods.
• Educate patients and their families on surgical options, expected recovery timelines, and post-discharge care instructions.
• Adhere strictly to hospital and clinic protocols, infection control standards, and all applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements.
• Contribute to continuous quality improvement initiatives by participating in case reviews, morbidity and mortality conferences, and departmental meetings.

Requirements

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited medical school.
• Board certified or board eligible in Cardiothoracic Surgery or Thoracic Surgery.
• Valid and unrestricted medical license in the state of practice; active DEA registration and ability to obtain state licensure as required.
• Associate-level experience (typically 2–5 years) in cardiothoracic surgery, with demonstrated proficiency in both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
• Completion of an accredited residency program in general surgery and a fellowship in cardiothoracic or thoracic surgery.
• Strong clinical judgment and the ability to manage complex, high-acuity surgical patients with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and patient consultations.
• Proficiency in electronic medical record systems and computerized physician order entry.
• Ability to work a flexible, on-site contract schedule including nights, weekends, and on-call rotations as dictated by the assignment.
• Demonstrated commitment to patient safety, evidence-based practice, and continuous professional development.

Schedule: 24-hour call shifts, 7a-7a, specific dates

Cases: CABG, valves

EMR: Epic

APP support

Board certification required

Paid travel & expenses