Outgoing President of the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO) Recaps Tenure at Spring Meeting
Katie Abby, COO of VISTA Staffing Solutions, Spoke of Successes and Challenges
Salt Lake City, Utah—April 21, 2006— The outgoing president of the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO), Katie Abby, summarized an eventful and successful 18-month tenure on April 20, 2006 at the NALTO Spring Meeting.Of the achievements Abby noted in her presentation, the highlight occurred in mid-2005. At that time, NALTO member companies worked together to overcome an attempt by the California Employment Development Department (EDD) to classify locum tenens physicians as staffing company employees in order to collect employer taxes. Thus, classifying locum tenens physicians as independent contractors remains the industry standard.
"This was a significant challenge to the very core of our industry, and I am proud that NALTO members united to overcome it," said Abby. "Overall, it was a privilege to serve as the president of an association that promotes an exciting and growing industry. More so because its members ultimately improve access to high-quality care for patients around the country."
During the 18 months that Abby led NALTO, two member companies reached a milestone by becoming the first in the locum tenens industry to be publicly traded. The association gained four new members, bringing the total membership to 36 companies, and an associate membership was added as an option for organizations affiliated with the industry. In addition, board participation was expanded with the addition of a new board seat and two new board members. Abby, who is chief operating officer of VISTA Staffing Solutions, will continue to serve as a member of the NALTO board of directors.
Established in 2001, the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO) is an association founded to create and enforce standards of practice, ethics, and dispute resolution. NALTO (www.nalto.org) members are committed to building an industry based on open communication, respect for clients and physicians, and an ultimate focus on quality patient care.
About VISTA Staffing Solutions
VISTA Staffing Solutions (www.vistastaff.com) is a leading provider of temporary physician staffing and permanent physician search services. Founded in 1990, the employee-owned company helps hospitals, medical practices and government agencies solve their physician staffing challenges. VISTA is the only agency that offers short- and long-term domestic jobs, international work opportunities, and permanent placement for physicians. The company is a founding member of the National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations (NALTO).
Company Contact
Carolyn RoseVISTA Staffing Solutions
800-366-1884
carolyn.rose@vistastaff.com
