Locum Tenens Staffing Market Size & Forecasts 2026-2035, By Segments (Type, End-use), Growth Opportunities, Innovation Landscape, Regulatory Shifts, Strategic Regional Insights (U.S., Japan, China, South Korea, UK, Germany, France), and Competitive Dynamics (CHG Healthcare, AMN Healthcare, Weatherby Healthcare, Jackson Healthcare, LocumTenens.com)

Market Outlook

Locum Tenens Staffing Market size is forecast to climb from USD 10.02 billion in 2025 to USD 21.04 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of over 7.7% during 2026-2035. Industry revenue in 2026 is projected at USD 10.69 billion.

• Base Year Value (2025): USD 10.02 Billion
• CAGR (2026-2035): 7.7%
• Forecast Year Value (2035): USD 21.04 Billion
• Historical Data Period: 2021-2025
• Largest Region: North America
• Forecast Period: 2026-2035

Key Takeaways

Market Dynamics

Growing Demand for Temporary Healthcare Professionals

The locum tenens staffing market is significantly influenced by the rising demand for temporary healthcare professionals, driven by an evolving healthcare landscape that increasingly prioritizes flexibility and responsiveness. As healthcare systems adapt to fluctuating patient volumes and the need for specialized skills, organizations are turning to locum tenens solutions to fill gaps swiftly. According to the American Medical Association, the growing reliance on temporary staffing not only addresses immediate staffing needs but also enhances the overall quality of care by allowing facilities to maintain optimal staff levels. This trend presents strategic opportunities for established players to expand their service offerings and for new entrants to capitalize on niche markets, such as specialized locum services tailored to specific medical fields.

Expansion of Telehealth Creating New Locum Opportunities

The rise of telehealth has opened new avenues within the locum tenens staffing market, allowing healthcare providers to offer services remotely and expand their reach. Telehealth platforms have enabled physicians to connect with patients across geographical boundaries, thus increasing the demand for locum professionals who can operate in this digital environment. A report by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services highlights that telehealth usage surged during the pandemic, indicating a permanent shift in how healthcare is delivered. This evolution not only allows established firms to innovate their staffing models but also provides new entrants with the chance to develop telehealth-specific staffing solutions, catering to a growing market of remote care providers.

Increasing Healthcare Staffing Shortages in Rural Areas

Healthcare staffing shortages in rural areas are a critical driver impacting the locum tenens staffing market, as these regions often struggle to attract and retain permanent healthcare professionals. The National Rural Health Association reports that rural communities face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, leading to increased reliance on temporary staffing solutions to ensure continuity of care. This scenario creates strategic opportunities for locum tenens firms to establish partnerships with healthcare facilities in underserved areas, thereby enhancing their market presence while addressing a pressing societal need. As the focus on health equity and access continues to grow, the locum tenens staffing market is poised to play a vital role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural settings.

Growth Driver Assessment Framework
Growth Driver	Impact On CAGR	Regulatory Influence	Geographic Relevance	Adoption Rate	Impact Timeline
Growing demand for temporary healthcare professionals	2.00%	Short term (≤ 2 yrs)	North America, Europe (spillover: Asia Pacific)	Low	Fast
Expansion of telehealth creating new locum opportunities	1.50%	Medium term (2–5 yrs)	Asia Pacific, North America (spillover: Europe)	Medium	Moderate
Increasing healthcare staffing shortages in rural areas	1.20%	Long term (5+ yrs)	North America, MEA (spillover: Latin America)	Low	Slow

Industry Restraints:

Regulatory Compliance Burdens

The locum tenens staffing market is significantly hindered by the complex regulatory landscape governing healthcare staffing. Compliance with varying state regulations, licensing requirements, and credentialing processes creates operational inefficiencies that slow down the deployment of healthcare professionals. For instance, the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO) highlights that the inconsistency in state laws can lead to delays in placing professionals, which ultimately impacts patient care and hospital operations. Furthermore, the need for rigorous background checks and verification processes adds layers of complexity, deterring potential market entrants who may lack the resources to navigate these challenges. As regulatory scrutiny continues to intensify, established firms face the dual challenge of maintaining compliance while managing operational costs, potentially limiting their capacity to scale. In the near to medium term, these compliance burdens are likely to persist, constraining market growth and innovation as firms adapt to evolving regulations.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

The locum tenens staffing market is also affected by supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly in the context of workforce availability and healthcare delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant weaknesses in the healthcare supply chain, leading to shortages of qualified temporary professionals in critical areas. According to a report by the American Hospital Association (AHA), hospitals have struggled to maintain adequate staffing levels, which has directly impacted their ability to deliver timely care. This has created a ripple effect, as healthcare facilities increasingly rely on locum tenens professionals to fill gaps, yet face challenges in sourcing qualified candidates quickly. For both established staffing agencies and new entrants, the pressure to ensure a reliable supply of talent becomes paramount, often resulting in increased operational costs and reduced margins. As healthcare demands evolve, the ongoing volatility in the labor market will likely continue to challenge the locum tenens staffing sector, compelling firms to innovate their recruitment and retention strategies to secure a competitive edge.

Regional Forecast

North America Market Statistics:

North America represented more than 49% of the global locum tenens staffing market in 2025, establishing itself as the largest region in this sector. This dominance is largely attributed to the high demand for flexible healthcare staffing solutions, which have become increasingly essential as healthcare providers strive to maintain service levels amidst fluctuating patient volumes and workforce shortages. The region's advanced healthcare infrastructure, coupled with a growing emphasis on workforce flexibility, has driven significant investment and innovation in staffing solutions. Organizations like the American Medical Association have noted the increasing reliance on locum tenens professionals to fill gaps in care, highlighting a shift in consumer preferences towards adaptable staffing models that ensure continuity in patient care.

The United States anchors the North American locum tenens staffing market, showcasing a unique interplay of demand for flexible healthcare staffing solutions. The country’s regulatory environment has evolved to support the integration of locum tenens professionals into healthcare systems, with state-level initiatives aimed at streamlining licensing processes for temporary practitioners. This has encouraged healthcare facilities to leverage locum tenens staffing as a strategic response to staffing shortages, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. According to the National Rural Health Association, the use of locum tenens practitioners has been instrumental in enhancing care delivery in underserved regions, thereby reinforcing the U.S. position as a pivotal player in the locum tenens staffing landscape. As such, the U.S. market not only bolsters regional growth but also presents significant opportunities for stakeholders looking to capitalize on evolving healthcare demands.

Asia Pacific Market Analysis:

Asia Pacific has emerged as the fastest-growing region in the locum tenens staffing market, registering rapid growth with a robust CAGR of 8.5%. This remarkable expansion is primarily driven by growing healthcare workforce shortages, which have intensified the demand for flexible staffing solutions across various healthcare settings. As countries in this region grapple with an aging population and increasing chronic disease prevalence, there is a pronounced shift towards utilizing locum tenens professionals to bridge the gap in healthcare delivery. The integration of technology in staffing processes, combined with evolving consumer preferences for immediate and quality healthcare, further amplifies the region's significance in this market. Recent reports from the World Health Organization highlight the urgent need for healthcare professionals in Asia Pacific, underscoring the region's potential for sustained investment and growth in locum tenens services.

Japan plays a pivotal role in the Asia Pacific locum tenens staffing market, characterized by its unique demographic challenges and healthcare demands. The aging population and a declining birthrate have led to a critical shortage of healthcare workers, prompting healthcare facilities to increasingly rely on locum tenens staffing to maintain service levels. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan has indicated a need for innovative staffing solutions to address these shortages, which has led to a rise in partnerships between healthcare organizations and staffing agencies. Moreover, the cultural acceptance of temporary healthcare professionals is growing, driven by a desire for high-quality patient care without compromising operational efficiency. This trend not only enhances the operational capabilities of healthcare providers but also positions Japan as a leader in adopting flexible staffing solutions within the region.

China, with its vast population and expanding healthcare infrastructure, is also a significant player in the locum tenens staffing market. The country is experiencing a surge in demand for healthcare services, exacerbated by urbanization and rising living standards. The National Health Commission of China has reported that the healthcare workforce is struggling to keep pace with the growing population's needs, leading to increased reliance on locum tenens professionals. This has been further supported by technological advancements in healthcare delivery, facilitating smoother integration of temporary staff into existing teams. The competitive landscape in China is evolving, with both local and international staffing agencies vying for market share, reflecting a robust appetite for innovative staffing solutions. As China continues to develop its healthcare system, the locum tenens staffing market presents substantial opportunities for growth, aligning with the region's overall trajectory.

Europe Market Trends:

Europe has maintained a significant share of the locum tenens staffing market, driven by a robust healthcare infrastructure and increasing demand for flexible staffing solutions. The region's importance is underscored by its aging population and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, leading to heightened demand for healthcare services. Additionally, evolving consumer preferences towards personalized care and the adoption of innovative staffing models are reshaping the landscape. Recent insights from the European Commission highlight a shift towards digital health solutions, enhancing operational efficiencies and improving patient outcomes. As regulatory frameworks adapt to support these changes, Europe presents a landscape ripe with opportunities for growth and innovation in locum tenens staffing.

Germany plays a pivotal role in the European locum tenens staffing market, characterized by its strong healthcare system and a growing emphasis on patient-centered care. The country has seen a surge in demand for temporary healthcare professionals, driven by a combination of workforce shortages and increasing patient loads. According to the Federal Statistical Office of Germany, the healthcare sector is projected to expand significantly, necessitating flexible staffing solutions to meet the demands of a diverse patient population. This trend is further supported by the German Medical Association, which emphasizes the need for innovative staffing approaches to alleviate systemic pressures. Consequently, Germany's strategic focus on integrating locum tenens staffing solutions aligns with the broader regional opportunities, positioning it as a key player in the market.

France also holds a significant position in the locum tenens staffing market, bolstered by its commitment to maintaining high-quality healthcare services amid evolving demographic challenges. The French government has implemented policies aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility, which has inadvertently increased the reliance on temporary staffing solutions. A report from the French Ministry of Health indicates that the demand for locum tenens professionals is rising, particularly in rural areas facing physician shortages. This growing trend reflects a cultural shift towards valuing flexible work arrangements within the healthcare sector. As France continues to prioritize healthcare innovation and accessibility, its role in the European locum tenens staffing market becomes increasingly strategic, creating avenues for collaboration and growth across the region.

Regional Market Attractiveness & Strategic Fit Matrix
Parameter	North America	Asia Pacific	Europe	Latin America	MEA
Innovation Hub	Advanced	Nascent	Advanced	Nascent	Nascent
Cost-Sensitive Region	Low	High	Medium	High	High
Regulatory Environment	Restrictive	Neutral	Restrictive	Neutral	Neutral
Demand Drivers	Strong	Weak	Strong	Weak	Weak
Development Stage	Developed	Emerging	Developed	Emerging	Emerging
Adoption Rate	High	Low	High	Low	Low
New Entrants / Startups	Dense	Sparse	Moderate	Sparse	Sparse
Macro Indicators	Strong	Weak	Strong	Weak	Weak

Segmentation Analysis

Analysis by Hospitals

The locum tenens staffing market is significantly dominated by the hospitals segment, which is projected to hold a commanding 63.7% share in 2025. This leadership is primarily driven by the increasing need for temporary staffing in large facilities, as hospitals seek to maintain operational efficiency amidst fluctuating patient volumes and staff shortages. The rising demand for healthcare services, coupled with the challenges posed by workforce shortages, has led hospitals to increasingly rely on locum tenens professionals to fill gaps in care. This segment not only provides established firms with a robust avenue for growth but also offers emerging players opportunities to establish themselves in a high-demand environment. Given the ongoing pressures within the healthcare system, the hospitals segment is expected to remain a critical component of the locum tenens staffing market in the near to medium term.

Analysis by Physicians

In the locum tenens staffing market, the physicians segment captures over 41.2% share in 2025, reflecting its pivotal role in addressing the high demand for primary care physicians. This segment's prominence is fueled by an aging population and an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, which necessitate more primary care services. The flexibility offered by locum tenens staffing enables healthcare providers to manage patient loads effectively while ensuring quality care delivery. This segment presents strategic advantages for both established firms looking to expand their service offerings and new entrants aiming to capitalize on the growing need for physician staffing solutions. With the healthcare landscape continuously evolving, the physicians segment is poised to sustain its relevance as it adapts to emerging healthcare needs and workforce dynamics.

Report Segmentation
Segment	Sub-Segment
Type	Physicians, Surgeons, Nurses, Anesthesiologist, Radiologist
End-use	Hospitals, Ambulatory Facilities, Other End-use

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the locum tenens staffing market include notable firms such as CHG Healthcare, AMN Healthcare, Weatherby Healthcare, and Jackson Healthcare. These companies have established a significant presence through their extensive networks and reputation for reliability. LocumTenens.com and Staff Care further enhance the competitive landscape with specialized services tailored to meet diverse healthcare staffing needs. CompHealth and Aya Healthcare are recognized for their innovative approaches, while TIVA Healthcare and VISTA Staffing Solutions contribute to the market's dynamism with their unique offerings and client-centric strategies. Each of these players plays a pivotal role in shaping the market, leveraging their strengths to address the evolving demands of healthcare facilities and professionals alike.

The competitive environment within the locum tenens staffing market is characterized by a series of strategic maneuvers that enhance market positioning and drive innovation. Leading firms are increasingly engaging in collaborative efforts and forming alliances that expand their service capabilities and geographic reach. For example, partnerships focused on integrating advanced technology solutions have become common, enabling these companies to streamline operations and improve client service. Additionally, some players have pursued acquisitions to bolster their talent pools and enhance their offerings, allowing them to respond more effectively to the needs of healthcare providers. This strategic interplay not only heightens competition but also fosters an environment of continuous improvement and adaptation within the industry.

Strategic / Actionable Recommendations for Regional Players

In North America, there is a growing opportunity for regional players to forge partnerships with technology firms specializing in telehealth solutions. This collaboration could enhance service delivery and expand access to locum tenens professionals, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, focusing on high-demand specialties such as primary care and mental health can streamline recruitment efforts and address critical gaps in healthcare services.

For players in the Asia Pacific region, embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and data analytics can provide a competitive edge. By leveraging these tools, companies can optimize their staffing processes and improve matching accuracy between healthcare facilities and locum tenens professionals. Targeting specific sub-segments, such as rural healthcare, may also yield significant growth opportunities, aligning services with regional healthcare challenges.

In Europe, fostering alliances with local healthcare organizations can enhance market penetration and credibility. By understanding regional regulatory landscapes and tailoring services to meet specific local needs, companies can differentiate themselves. Additionally, investing in continuous training and development for locum tenens professionals can improve service quality and client satisfaction, positioning firms as leaders in the evolving healthcare landscape.