Leah Perez
VP of Hire Up Healthcare
If you’re a healthcare professional looking to combine your passion for helping others with your love for adventure, a career in travel healthcare might be just the ticket. Travel healthcare professionals, including nurses, therapists, and allied health workers, have the unique opportunity to work in diverse healthcare settings across the country while enjoying the perks of exploration. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the essential steps to kickstart your journey as a travel healthcare professional.
1. Choose Your Specialty
Before diving into the world of travel healthcare, identify what specialty you have at least 2 years of experience in. A large majority of healthcare facilities will require at least 2 years of experience, and for good reason! Travel healthcare professionals are expected to dive right in, with little to no orientation. So it’s important to have confidence in your specialty so you can be successful. Are you a registered nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or another type of healthcare professional? Your specialty will determine the demand for your skills in various locations, so consider where you’d like to work and what specialties are needed there.
2. Obtain the Necessary Education and Licensure
Ensure you meet the educational and licensing requirements for your specialty. As mentioned, travel healthcare agencies like Hire Up Healthcare require a minimum of two years of recent clinical experience. You’ll also need an active license in your state of practice and, in some cases, a multistate licensure if you plan to work in multiple states. You will also need to obtain other licenses and/or certifications, depending on your specialty and depending on what the healthcare facility requires.
3. Research Travel Healthcare Agencies
There are numerous travel healthcare agencies out there, so it’s crucial to do your homework. Hire Up Healthcare prides ourselves in being a smaller agency so we can give our travelers the attention they deserve. You will want your agency to be your advocate and have a strong reputation for supporting their travelers. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from fellow travelers, and speak to multiple agencies and recruiters to find the right fit for you. If I may, I highly recommend Hire Up Healthcare!
4. Build Your Resume
Craft a stellar resume that highlights your skills, experience, and certifications. Emphasize your flexibility, adaptability, and willingness to work in different healthcare settings. Hire Up Healthcare will review your resume to match you with suitable contracts.
5. Select Your Destinations
One of the most exciting aspects of being a travel healthcare professional is choosing your destinations. Work with your agency to identify your preferred locations and assignments. Consider factors like climate, cost of living, and proximity to family and friends when making your choices.
6. Negotiate Your Contract
When you’re offered a contract, review it carefully. Pay close attention to details such as pay rates, housing arrangements, benefits, and any special requirements. Don’t hesitate to negotiate terms that are important to you. Your recruiter will know what you are looking for based on the conversations you’ve had. If something is off in the contract, allow your recruiter to go to bat with the facility for you. That’s what we are here for!
7. Prepare for Your Journey
Before you embark on your first assignment, make sure you’re well-prepared. Pack essential documents, including licenses and certifications. Ensure you have appropriate housing arrangements and transportation. Familiarize yourself with the healthcare facility where you’ll be working and the local area.
8. Embrace the Adventure
Once you start your travel healthcare assignment, embrace the adventure! Explore your new surroundings, meet new people, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Remember that this experience is not only about advancing your career but also about personal growth and enrichment.
9. Stay Connected
Stay connected with your travel healthcare agency throughout your assignments. Maintain open communication, report any concerns, and seek support if needed. Agencies are there to help you have a successful and enjoyable experience.
Starting a career as a travel healthcare professional can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Travel healthcare allows you to make a positive impact on patients’ lives while embarking on your own adventure!
If you are looking for an agency who has your best interest at heart, call our offices today to connect with one of our recruiters! Let’s chat! 559-931-9011
Leah Perez, VP of Healthcare | October 2023
As the Vice President of Hire Up Healthcare Leah focuses on the national level clients. Leah has over 20 years of recruiting experience in various industries from medical/clinical to administrative/accounting, all of which has launched her to being one of the most well-respected staffing leaders in California. Clients and candidates would describe her as urgent, ethical, and most importantly she takes the time to understand her clients needs so she can properly assist them. Leah would love to speak with you so she can help your business reach new heights.
