Locum Tenens: Temporary Coverage With Strict Conditions
Locum Tenens
The locum tenens section tests temporary dental coverage. The central rule is that locum tenens is a time-limited, purpose-limited arrangement to fill a practice gap, not a shortcut to Nebraska licensure.
Core rules
- The locum tenens dentist must hold the credential and meet the conditions the Board requires, including any sponsorship, practice-site, or duration limits.
- The arrangement is temporary: know the maximum period allowed and do not continue practicing after it expires without the proper credential.
- Practice is limited to the approved locum setting and scope; do not use it to open an independent practice or treat patients at unrelated sites.
- The regular dentist or sponsor remains responsible for patient transition, records, and continuity of care.
- Obtain informed consent, document care, and leave records that the regular dentist can follow.
- Comply with infection control, prescribing, and referral duties exactly as a regularly licensed dentist would.
Worked example
A Nebraska dentist plans a three-month absence and asks an out-of-state dentist to cover. The covering dentist cannot simply hang a shingle. The locum must qualify for the locum credential, work within the approved temporary arrangement and time limit, and practice at the approved site. The covering dentist should verify the credential before seeing patients and must stop when the authorized period ends. The reasoning: temporary need does not waive licensure or site limits.
Traps
- Treating locum tenens as a portable full license.
- Exceeding the allowed duration or approved practice site.
- Failing to arrange record access and patient continuity.
- Practicing before the locum credential is effective.