Travel Nursing Companies
It is important to choose your travel company carefully as they can make all the difference in your travel nursing experience. There are a host of travel nursing agencies out there, so shop around and find one with a great benefit package and recruiters that will take care of you. Here are some of the benefits to look out for:
- An excellent rate of pay—most jobs usually pay between $22-45/hour
- Free accommodation (including utilities) or an alternative housing allowance
- Free health, dental and life insurance plans
- Travel and re-location reimbursement
- 401k plan
- Holiday pay
- Overtime and completion bonuses
- Continuing education units
- 24-hour support service
The Application Process
You begin by filling out an application form, which usually allows you to choose up to three preferred destinations. This stage can often be done online and you are under no obligation at this point. Within a few days, you will be contacted by a recruiter, either by phone or email. This will give you the opportunity to discuss available positions and address any questions or concerns you may have. Your recruiter will then submit your profile to their client facilities and set up an interview for you. Before your interview you should write down a list of questions to ask the agency and the medical facility to ensure they are right for you. The list may include the following topics:
- Floating policy – discuss the specialties in which you’re comfortable floating
- Medical facility – find out a s much as you can about the facility/hospital
- Duration of assignment – you may have the opportunity to extend your assignment if you wish
- Hours – be sure that your hours are confirmed, ask what happens if the hospital cancels your assignment
- Clarify all your benefits
Accepting an Assignment
A few days after accepting your assignment, your recruiter will contact you with your salary confirmation and your start date. You will then receive your confirmation package in the mail. This provides you with the essential information about your assignment. Stay in close contact with your recruiter and communicate clearly so that you can have all your questions answered.
Licensing Issues
Licensing varies from state to state, and the process of applying for a license also varies. Most states offer a temporary license that is valid between 90 days and 12 months. Your recruiter will assist you in acquiring a temporary license. In some states the process can be quite lengthy, so you may need to plan ahead. Some companies will also reimburse your licensing fee after you have been with them for awhile. You can find out about New Hampshire licensure here.
Travel Nursing with Children
Don’t be discouraged from travel nursing if you have a family. Your recruiter will be more than happy to help you find suitable accommodation for you and your family, whatever your needs. Travel nursing can really broaden your children’s horizons, introducing them to varied cultures and new places. Make sure you find out all the information that you and your family need about the new community, particularly safety concerns, school locations and family-friendly activities. Check out these helpful links:
New Hampshire Communities: Learn about cities and towns in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Schools: Find the perfect school for your children.
New Hampshire Travel: Discover how to get around via public transport.
New Hampshire Driving: Stay on top of current traffic information.
New Hampshire Fairs and Festivals: Virginia has fairs and festivals all year round.
State Parks in New Hampshire: Enjoy the glorious outdoors.
Family-Friendly New Hampshire: Read about 51 of the coolest place for kids in Virginia.
Pet-Friendly New Hampshire: Dog-friendly events throughout the state.
New Hampshire Nightlife: Hire a babysitter for the evening and enjoy some adult fun.
Off the Beaten Path: Some of the more unusual attractions New Hampshire has to offer.
New Hampshire Dining: From fast food to fine cuisine, the “Granite State” has it all.
Ski Areas: Check ski locations and conditions in New Hampshire.