When you’re first starting out, you may have a lot of questions about healthcare travel in general and why you should consider it as a career option. Whether you’re a traveling nurse, therapist, or another healthcare discipline, a recruiter works with many travelers like you on a daily basis and can help guide you through the process.
It’s also important to figure out what your wants and needs are so that you can ask the right questions throughout the process. This will help your recruiter evaluate your situation and give you the best options specifically tailored for you. We break down some of the top questions to cover with your recruiter so that you’re prepared for the road ahead and ready for your next travel assignment.
What to Ask Your Healthcare Travel Recruiter
What does it mean to be a traveler? What are the benefits?
You’ve probably done some research about traveling as a nurse or healthcare professional before speaking with a recruiter, but this is a good opportunity to get their expertise on the subject. They can help you understand the logistics and benefits of a healthcare travel career.
Recruiters are well versed in the process and also have relationships with the clients and healthcare facilities they place you in. Based on your wants and needs for travel, a recruiter can help you evaluate your specific situation and decide what’s the right fit for you.
How many years of experience and what certifications do I need to travel?
There are a number of basic requirements you must meet to become a traveler and your recruiter can help you evaluate if you’re ready to start traveling now or what else you need to do in order to get started. Most of the time, at least 1-2 years of recent experience in a particular specialty or setting is required for travel positions but requirements can vary by discipline and facility.
Other experience and certifications might be required for certain travel assignments, so it’s always a good idea to discuss the specifics with your recruiter. You want to make sure that you meet all the requirements of the job and have the necessary documentation together so you’re ready to travel!
What benefits do travelers receive?
It’s definitely a good idea to decide what’s important to you as far as benefits go and ask for that information from your recruiter to review. A recruiter will be able to explain their company’s offerings and how it breaks down, given what you elect and the particular assignment. There are usually additional perks for travelers like reward programs and referral bonuses, so be sure to ask what else your recruiter can offer beyond your standard benefits.
What factors may affect my pay package?
A number of variables impact your pay as a traveler. If you elect for health benefits or PTO, that can change how your pay breaks down. A recruiter can help you customize your pay package to fit your needs and walk you through how it all breaks down. An assignment may offer something like a sign-on or completion bonus as well.
You can give yourself a boost by utilizing a company’s referral bonus program as well. Your recruiter can help you understand your non-taxable travel stipend, but it’s always recommended that you talk to a tax professional about your particular circumstances to get their expertise for filing your tax return.
How long are travel contracts? Is there any flexibility in the number of weeks I work?
Travel contracts are typically 13-week assignments, but that can depend on the particular need. It’s always a good idea to get clarification and ask your recruiter about a specific contract to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.
Getting that information early on can help you schedule your travels around moving to your new location or vacation time in between assignments. You can also learn about additional opportunities like extending your assignment from your recruiter if you want to stay in a particular location longer.
How long will it take to get started once I’m offered a travel assignment?
There can sometimes be a lot of paperwork and preparation needed before you start an assignment, and in other situations, you’ll have to move quickly with a tighter turnaround. Either way, it’s good to know what licensing and compliance you’ll need to have together before you can start an assignment and what the facility is expecting as far as a start date.
Sometimes you will have to complete additional certifications or orientation based on the facility. Those requirements are decided by the particular client partner. Knowing what’s expected for each travel assignment is your key to success. Open communication with your recruiter is also important so you can stay on top of everything and avoid delays along the way.
What happens after I complete my travel assignment?
It’s never too early to start thinking about what’s next! A recruiter should be your career advocate during your travel journey. If you have desired locations on your list, or you know that you have a vacation planned before starting your next assignment, let your recruiter know so they can support you in preparing for what’s ahead.
Speaking to your recruiter about your plans and goals will help you worry less about the logistics along the way so you can focus on caring for your patients and enjoy your travel adventures. Contact our expert travel recruiting team to learn more about available travel jobs!
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