Depending on what part of the country you are living in, Daylight Savings Time usually means that spring is just around the corner. Spring is a time of renewal and reminds us of the freshness and beauty of Mother Nature as she awakens from the winter slumber. Spring is also the season where busy homeowners all across the country find time to clean up around the house, organize the garage, and get ready for the warmer months ahead. It should also be a time for a little spring cleaning on your career. Let’s look at five tips that healthcare travelers should take care of this spring.
- Review Your License. This time of year is perfect for making sure your license is in order. Check now to ensure that it stays current and if you are getting close, don’t put your renewal off and risk it lapsing. If you are planning to take on an assignment in a non-compact state, act now to get your licensing in order. While it is nice to be able to rely on your recruiter to help with some of these details, your best chance to get the perfect assignment is to have all of your licensing affairs in order up front.
- Plan Your Continuing Education. Since you have already gotten your licensing on track, you can also take a moment to plan your credentialing and continuing education for the year. Right now, while the snow is still piled up outside your window, decide if you want to tackle a new specialty or just determine what CE credits you need and get a head start on your studies.
- Get Your Tax Affairs in Order. This year’s date to file your federal taxes is Monday, April 15th. As a travel nurse or therapist, your taxes may be more complicated than someone who works in a single location. Don’t wait until the last minute to get your expenses organized, make sure all of your receipts are in order, and gain an understanding of states that you may be responsible for state income taxes.
- Do a Retirement Review. If you are like most, the mere thought of logging into your 401(k) account causes your eyes to glaze over. That’s why committing to an annual account review is the best way to stay aware of where you stand and if any changes are necessary. Once you have filed your taxes, check your retirement account and determine if your goals are being met. Can you afford to withhold a little more? If your retirement is years away, can you tolerate more risk to gain a larger return? At the very least, talk to an account representative and have them explain your options.
- Take Care of Yourself. As a busy healthcare professional, your own health and well-being is usually the last thing on your “to-do” list. As part of your spring cleaning routine, make sure you schedule necessary annual checkups with your primary care physician and other providers as needed. Take care of it now while the kids are still in school and before your focus is on packing for the beach and taking care of “you” falls through the cracks.
Supplemental Health Care has hundreds of travel opportunities for nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals. If you are ready for your next assignment, contact one of our recruitment professionals today.
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