In our ongoing series highlighting the exceptional healthcare professionals who make up the Uniti Med family, we’re thrilled to feature Jessica K, Med Surg RN, a dedicated travel nurse whose journey has taken her across the country. From pandemic response to scenic adventures between assignments, Jessie shares her experiences, favorite memories and valuable advice for those considering the travel healthcare path.
Between assignments, Jessie, a Uniti Med travel nurse, explored the beauty of Greece. Traveling has been her way to recharge and combat burnout, embracing new places, cultures, and connections along the way.
Finding Her Way to Travel Nursing
Jessie’s travel journey began like many others — during the challenging days of the pandemic in 2019-2020. Working in a hospital COVID-19 ICU in Georgia, she took her first steps into the mobile healthcare world by providing PCR and rapid COVID-19 testing for movie and television productions.
“I worked in the southeast region of the U.S. and in Chicago a number of times,” Jessie recalls. “I did have the opportunity to be on a few film sets, which was a really neat experience, but I mostly tested cast and crew members before filming began for safety and compliance.”
As testing demands decreased and facing the inevitable burnout from working in a COVID-19 unit, Jessie decided it was time for a change. She transitioned to traditional travel contracts, which have since taken her to Nashville, Tennessee; Atlanta, Georgia; Douglas, Georgia; Louisville, Kentucky; and Montgomery, Alabama.
“Nashville was definitely my favorite contract so far,” she shares. “I enjoyed my time there so much. There was a ton to do and see, and I was surrounded by mountains and a myriad of hiking trails which is my favorite place to be.”
Jessie captures a breathtaking moment from her hike in the Tennessee mountains. It’s easy to see why this travel nurse assignment was one of her favorites!
When asked about a favorite memory from her travels, Jessie’s response reveals the heart of a true healthcare professional.
“I think if you asked any healthcare worker, they would immediately be able to tell you about the patients or family members that have stuck with them or made an impact on their lives,” she says.
During her contract in Louisville, Jessie cared for a patient who had suffered a severe traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident. The patient’s family, particularly his wife and small children, remained constantly by his side.
“I developed a really sweet relationship with the family, and his kids would draw and color pictures for me any time I was assigned to his room,” Jessie remembers fondly. “The family still texts me from time to time to let me know about that patient’s progress.”
Those drawings now adorn Jessie’s refrigerator — a daily reminder that healthcare professionals can “make a difference in a person’s life and bring a little sunshine to a really tragic situation.”
The Uniti Med Difference
Jessie’s path to Uniti Med came through a chance encounter with a Facebook post by one of our recruiters on a nursing page for travelers.
“I was frustrated by the limited options I had with my travel agency at the time,” she explains. “I went rogue and responded to a Uniti Med recruiter’s post offering to review nurses’ resumes to help them find better assignments.”
That initial connection clicked immediately, and Jessie has been with Uniti Med ever since. She appreciates working with a recruiter who really cares about travelers and advocates for them.
Jessie also praises the entire Uniti Med team, particularly noting how they make the compliance process — often a hurdle in travel contracts — “as painless as possible.” Her satisfaction with Uniti Med is evident in her continued extensions at her current position for over a year.
“Compliance especially is always a hurdle with travel contracts but I can honestly say that Uniti Med really does make it as painless as possible,” she notes. “They found me a position that I am super happy with, and I have continued to extend with them for over a year.”
Jessica taking in the full Kentucky experience by making a bourbon barrel at Buffalo Trace Distillery. She believes every travel nurse assignment has something special to offer—if you take the time to explore.
For healthcare professionals considering the travel nurse path, Jessie offers this wisdom: “Give yourself some grace, especially at the beginning of your transition into traveling. The first contract is always the hardest, but once you get through that first assignment and get your ‘nursing legs’ under you, you’ll beast mode the rest of them!”
She also emphasizes the importance of exploring each location. “It’s easy to let yourself go into a cocoon when you get off work and just stay there until the next shift, and that’s okay! But, after getting some rest, go enjoy the city/town you’re in. Every place you go has something special about it if you look hard enough.”
Finding Balance Through Travel
While acknowledging the challenges of “always being the new person in a new place and being away from friends and family,” Jessie believes the benefits of travel nursing far outweigh the difficulties.
“I have absolutely loved getting to go to new places and experiencing everything they have to offer, as well as the non-work travel, I’ve been able to experience as a result of this profession,” she shares. “Traveling has been a way for me to successfully combat burnout by not only enjoying varying geographical locations but also in the people I work with and the patients I get to take care of.”
She values her experience with Uniti Med, saying, “The difference between Uniti Med and other agencies I’ve worked with is like night and day, and I couldn’t be happier with the effort they’ve put in to find the best outcome for me!”
Start Your Travel Journey
If you’re a healthcare professional interested in travel opportunities with Uniti Med, contact us today! We’ll help you find your perfect assignment and provide the support that keeps professionals like Jessie coming back.
Looking for a meaningful way to give back this summer? Camp Jabberwocky and Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake offer incredible RN summer volunteer opportunities where you can make a real difference. Whether you’re providing medical support for children with disabilities at Camp Jabberwocky or offering compassionate care to families at Eagle Lake, these roles allow you to use your skills in a rewarding and impactful way.
At Uniti Med, we believe in the power of community engagement and are here to support you in finding the right volunteer experience. These opportunities not only benefit those you serve but also offer personal and professional growth.
Camp Jabberwocky
Camp Jabberwocky, located in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, provides a residential vacation camp for people with disabilities while offering respite for their caregivers. The camp enriches the lives of its campers through recreation and a supportive environment that fosters independence, self-determination, and the fulfillment of human potential. It is a community built on inclusivity, love, and mutual support.
Camp Jabberwocky is seeking enthusiastic and responsible individuals to join its medical team. Volunteers play a vital role in creating a fun and safe environment where campers can learn, grow, and make lasting memories. This is a rewarding opportunity to positively impact the lives of children and adults with a wide range of disabilities.
The camp welcomes individuals interested in volunteering for one to two weeks over the summer. Free room and board are provided for all volunteers, and a small weekly stipend is available for those committing to two or more weeks.
Volunteer Details:
Commitment: One to two weeks over the summer
Free room and board provided
Small weekly stipend available for volunteers committing two or more weeks
Priority weeks:
Week 2: Saturday, July 5 – Friday, July 11
Week 3: Sunday, July 13 – Sunday, July 20
Space still available:
Week 4: Sunday, July 20 – Saturday, July 26
Week 6: Monday, August 4 – Sunday, August 10
Week 7: Monday, August 11 – Sunday, August 17
Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake was established in 1993 and is accredited by the American Camp Association. The camp provides residential summer programs for children who are at risk due to medical needs, economic hardship, or physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities. Through a partnership with the Lassen National Forest, the camp removes barriers, allowing children to experience the traditional camp activities that many know and love.
Located on 35 acres along Eagle Lake, just outside of Susanville, California, Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, sports, outdoor and nutrition education, talent shows, and a mile of waterfront for relaxation. The campground features a dining hall, two shower houses, an amphitheater, a campfire pit, a beach volleyball court, a sandpit, a fully accessible dock and waterfront, a basketball court, and a grass playing field. With nine cabins accommodating up to 100 campers per week, it provides a meaningful and rewarding setting to give back before your next assignment.
The camp is currently seeking healthcare support for two camp sessions.
Session 1: Lassen County Kids Week (June 29 – July 3)
Campers: Able-bodied children ages 8-12
Responsibilities: Basic first aid and medication administration
Environment: A relaxed, traditional summer camp experience with a small local community group
Benefits: Lodging and three meals per day provided
Session 2: Kids and Adults with Disabilities (July 6 – July 12)
Campers: Individuals ages 12-65 with disabilities such as autism and developmental challenges
Responsibilities: Medication administration, first aid, and camper well-being
Staffing Ratio: 1:4, with most campers being high functioning
Environment: A structured yet fulfilling experience with long-time returning campers
These roles go beyond donating your time; they create lasting connections and meaningful impacts. The urgency and importance of this work make now the perfect time to secure your place in these volunteer opportunities.
About Uniti Med: As a leading healthcare staffing company, Uniti Med is known for its outstanding culture and dedicated professionals. We specialize in travel nursing, locum tenens, and various healthcare sectors, fostering meaningful relationships with both our clients and employees. Recognized on multiple prestigious lists—including SIA’s 2024 Best Staffing Firms to Temp for and Best Staffing Firms to Work For—Uniti Med is committed to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry. In 2024 Uniti Med joined GQR.
Uniti Med, a GQR company, is honored to receive ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Talent Award for the third year in a row, reaffirming our commitment to delivering exceptional service to travel healthcare professionals across the nation.
Outstanding Service Recognized
With feedback from 90+ travel healthcare professionals we placed in rewarding roles, Uniti Med earned an impressive 9.3 average out of 10 stars. Our travelers consistently commend our responsive, compassionate recruiters, reliable job placements, and seamless experiences. See what they have to say by checking out our traveler reviews on Uniti Med’s ClearlyRated profile.
Gratitude from Our Leadership
Uniti Med’s leadership team expressed their pride and gratitude for this achievement:
“Being recognized by with the Best of Staffing award by ClearlyRated is an incredible honor. I’m proud of our recruiters for earning this award once again! Their dedication and passion truly set us apart, ensuring our healthcare professionals receive the best possible experience.”
“We are incredibly proud to have such an outstanding company as part of the GQR family. Uniti Med’s recruiters go above and beyond, demonstrating dedication to their travelers. Their culture, passion, and commitment set them apart, ensuring healthcare professionals feel valued and supported every step of the way.”
The survey behind this award included five key questions and an open-text section for additional feedback. We encourage our travelers to continue sharing their experiences and insights—your input is invaluable in shaping and improving our services.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Winning the ClearlyRated Best of Staffing Talent Award for the third consecutive year fuels our mission to exceed expectations in healthcare staffing. We remain steadfast in providing exceptional service, unwavering support, and unmatched opportunities for healthcare professionals nationwide.
About Uniti Med: As a leading healthcare staffing company, Uniti Med is known for its outstanding culture and dedicated professionals. We specialize in travel nursing, locum tenens, and various healthcare sectors, fostering meaningful relationships with both our clients and employees. Recognized on multiple prestigious lists—including SIA’s 2024 Best Staffing Firms to Temp For and Best Staffing Firms to Work For—Uniti Med is committed to making a lasting impact in the healthcare industry. In 2024 Uniti Med joined GQR.
What a year 2024 has been! Enjoy a recap of Uniti Med’s notable moments, achievements and general happenings of 2024…
Big Moves in July
Uniting with GQR Healthcare
The biggest news? In July, we joined forces with GQR Healthcare, marking an exciting new chapter in our story. Together, we unveiled a fresh brand identity and expanded our ability to serve both healthcare facilities and professionals nationwide.
Thanks to our incredible healthcare professionals, we earned the #9 spot on BluePipes’ Best Nursing Staffing Companies list, scoring 98 — the highest among companies with over 500 reviews. We also received our second Best of Staffing Talent Award from ClearlyRated. What makes these awards special? They came directly from our employees’ and travelers’ feedback. Thank you, Uniti Med community!
Stories from Our Travelers
Smile, You’re on Assignment (and Camera)
In 2024, we had the privilege of working with hundreds of amazing healthcare travelers. From witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska to experiencing the charm of Martha’s Vineyard, you shared incredible stories from your journeys. In addition, we were thrilled to recognize Paul Rendon, LPN, as a Daisy Award honoree in May.
We believe in giving back to our communities, and 2024 was no exception. Our team rolled up their sleeves to participate in blood drives, support community clean ups, deliver meals to seniors, march in the Heartland Pride Parade, and spread holiday cheer through cards for long-term care residents.
We started 2024 strong by offering day-one health insurance coverage for all travelers. Every placement now includes immediate health coverage and comprehensive benefits from the first day of assignment. We also expanded our leadership team, welcoming Carrie Ausdemore as nursing manager.
From conference halls to facility floors and our office, we’ve been busy building connections, supporting healthcare delivery across the country, and creating space for play and celebration. What makes us most proud, though, is watching our healthcare professionals thrive while providing crucial care to the communities that need them most. We’re grateful for every healthcare professional, client, and team member who has been part of our journey.
Join our journey: Here’s to an even brighter 2025
Find your next opportunity with Uniti Med! From day-one health insurance to dedicated support, we’re here to make your travel journey exceptional.
Looking to map out your travel nursing adventures for 2025? We’ve curated a seasonal guide to help you explore diverse locations throughout the year. Each state has been selected to showcase its peak season, whether that means perfect weather, unique cultural events, or optimal outdoor activities to enjoy between shifts.
From experiencing the northern lights during an Alaska winter assignment to closing out your year with a December contract in Hawaii, this guide helps you align your travel nursing journey with what each state has to offer. We’ve considered factors like seasonal activities, housing considerations, and local attractions to help you make the most of each assignment.
1. January – Alaska
Start your year with an adventure in The Last Frontier. While the darkness and cold might seem daunting, January offers unique experiences like the northern lights and world-class winter sports. Many facilities offer crisis rates during winter months, making it financially rewarding. Plus, the tight-knit healthcare community welcomes travelers warmly during the challenging winter season.
Don’t Miss: Check out our blog on Alaska with practical information, traveler photos and more.
Big Sky Country shines in winter. From skiing at world-class resorts to soaking in natural hot springs, Montana offers the perfect work-life balance. The state’s rural healthcare facilities particularly value travelers during winter months when permanent staff recruitment can be challenging. Base yourself in larger cities like Billings or Bozeman for the best combination of urban amenities and outdoor adventure.
As spring begins to bloom, the Palmetto State offers mild temperatures and stunning coastal views. Charleston and Myrtle Beach’s healthcare facilities see increased patient volumes as tourists begin arriving. Take advantage of off days exploring historic districts, playing golf, or enjoying the famous Southern hospitality before the summer humidity kicks in.
Don’t Miss: Visit Brookgreen Gardens during their spring bloom – it’s the largest outdoor sculpture garden in America.
Spring in Tennessee brings mild temperatures and natural beauty, with wildflowers blooming in the Great Smoky Mountains. From Nashville’s healthcare hub to facilities in Knoxville and Memphis, you’ll find diverse assignment options. April offers perfect weather for exploring the state’s music scene, hiking in the Smokies, or enjoying outdoor festivals. The state’s central location also makes it easy to explore neighboring regions on your days off.
Don’t Miss: Time your visit to catch the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in the Smokies – a unique celebration of the region’s incredible biodiversity.
The Peach State shines in May before the peak summer heat arrives. Georgia offers a perfect blend of city life and outdoor adventure, with Atlanta’s major healthcare systems providing numerous opportunities. The weather is ideal for exploring the North Georgia mountains, coastal islands, or historic Savannah. Between shifts, you can enjoy the state’s famous golf courses, hike the Appalachian Trail’s southern terminus, or explore the burgeoning food scene in Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods.
Don’t Miss: Visit Providence Canyon State Park, known as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” during late spring when wildflowers carpet the rim.
The Pacific Northwest comes alive in June with comfortable temperatures and minimal rain. Whether you’re in Seattle’s cutting-edge healthcare scene or a smaller community hospital, you’ll have access to stunning outdoor recreation. Explore Mt. Rainier, kayak in Puget Sound, or enjoy the vibrant food scene between shifts.
Don’t Miss: Visit the Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park – June offers the perfect balance of mild weather and mystical moss-covered landscapes.
Peak summer in Colorado means perfect conditions for outdoor adventure. The state’s robust healthcare system offers opportunities in both major cities and mountain towns. After work, tackle a 14er, go white water rafting, or explore mountain towns. The dry climate makes even warm days comfortable.
Experience the American West at its finest while working in Wyoming’s healthcare facilities. August brings warm days and cool nights, perfect for exploring Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. While assignments might be more limited than in larger states, the experience of working in close-knit communities can be incredibly rewarding.
The Land of Enchantment offers mild temperatures and stunning fall colors in September. From major medical centers in Albuquerque to smaller facilities in historic Santa Fe, you’ll find diverse professional opportunities. Don’t miss the International Balloon Fiesta while experiencing the unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures.
Bonus Tip: Visit Bandelier National Monument during golden hour to see the ancient cliff dwellings in their most photogenic light.
Fall foliage makes New England irresistible in October. The region’s high concentration of prestigious healthcare facilities means plenty of professional opportunities. Whether you’re in Boston’s medical district or a picturesque Vermont town, you’ll experience world-class healthcare alongside spectacular autumn scenery.
Bonus Tip: Drive the Kancamagus Highway through New Hampshire’s White Mountains for the most spectacular fall foliage views.
The Lone Star State’s mild fall weather makes November an ideal time to visit. Texas offers some of the country’s highest travel rates and a wide variety of facility types. From major medical centers in Houston to community hospitals in Hill Country, you’ll find opportunities matching your professional goals while enjoying outdoor activities year-round.
Bonus Tip: Experience the unique desert landscape of Big Bend National Park before winter temperatures arrive.
Close out your year in paradise. Hawaii’s healthcare facilities frequently need travelers, and December brings perfect weather. Between shifts, enjoy world-class beaches, hiking, and cultural experiences. While housing can be challenging, the experience of spending the holiday season in Hawaii makes it worthwhile.
Bonus Tip: Join a sunrise tour to Haleakala Summit on Maui – it’s cold at the top, but the view above the clouds is unforgettable.
Choosing the best state for your next travel nurse adventure isn’t just about pay, facility quality, or housing—it’s about finding the perfect fit at the perfect time. Whether you’re following this monthly guide or creating your own path, every state has unique opportunities for career growth and unforgettable experiences. Let this guide inspire your 2025 journey, and if you want to dive deeper into specific opportunities, our recruitment team is just a call away!
Remember to check specific facility requirements, housing availability, and licensing requirements well in advance for each state. Contract rates and availability may vary based on seasonal demand and location.
Ever wondered what it’s like to combine your healthcare passion with the opportunity to explore new places? Healthcare travel might be your calling. It sounds exciting – and a bit intimidating – but don’t worry. We’re here to provide a comprehensive breakdown of everything first-time travelers need to know, from compensation packages to licensing requirements. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or ready to take the plunge, this guide will help you navigate your journey into healthcare travel with confidence.
Your Top Questions Answered
What First-Time Travelers Really Want to Know
Let’s talk money – it’s the question every first-time traveler wants to understand. Your travel healthcare compensation isn’t just a simple salary; it’s a strategic breakdown designed to maximize your earning potential while providing comprehensive support for your travel lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know about your compensation package:
1. Hourly Rate: Your base compensation for the core work you do.
2. Housing Stipend: Support for finding a comfortable home away from home.
3. Meals and Incidentals Per Diem: Coverage for your day-to-day expenses while on assignment.
Pro Tip: To qualify for tax-free stipends and reimbursements, you must duplicate expenses – maintaining a permanent tax home while also paying for temporary housing and expenses at your assignment location. While many facilities have a 50-mile radius requirement for travelers, this is an industry standard rather than an IRS rule. The key factor for tax compliance is the duplication of expenses.
How Much Can I Actually Earn?
While everyone talks about money, smart travelers look beyond the headline number. Here’s something to consider: A lower-paying job in a rural area might actually mean more money in your pocket. Why? Cost of living makes a dramatic difference in your actual take-home pay. That seemingly modest Midwest position could net you more than a higher-paying job in an expensive coastal city. When evaluating opportunities, consider factors like local housing costs, state taxes, and everyday expenses. Remember, it’s not just about how much you earn, but how much you keep at the end of the day.
What About Licensing?
Navigating state licensing requirements might seem overwhelming at first, but with proper planning and resources, it becomes a manageable part of your travel career. We’ve assembled comprehensive resources for your specific profession, making it easier than ever to understand and plan for licensing requirements across different states:
Pro Move: Pro Move: Consider maintaining 2-4 state licenses at any given time. Think of these licenses as your professional passport – they open doors to opportunities across the country and give you flexibility in choosing your next assignment. Many experienced travelers strategically select states based on demand, location preferences, and licensing reciprocity agreements.
What Constitutes a Traveler?
“Am I really a traveler?” This question comes up frequently among healthcare professionals considering the switch to travel work. While many facilities set their own distance requirements (often 50 miles or more) for travel positions, what truly defines a traveler from a tax perspective is the duplication of expenses. You must maintain a tax home while taking on additional costs at your temporary work location to qualify for tax-free stipends and benefits.
Busting a Big Myth
Myth: A Recruiter’s Role Begins and Ends with Placement
The reality of a recruiter’s role extends far beyond simply matching professionals with open positions. Behind every placement is a complex world most travelers never see. Recruiters manage:
Think of your recruiter as a teammate. The relationship between a healthcare traveler and recruiter extends far beyond the initial placement. As industry veterans often say, “Without the traveler, there is no recruiter. Without the recruiter, there is no traveler.” This symbiotic relationship forms the foundation of successful travel healthcare careers. A truly great recruiter goes above and beyond basic job placement. They:
Understand your goals
Advocate for you every single day
Become your professional ally
So, the next time you encounter a narrow view of recruiting, remember: this profession is about building lasting relationships, supporting healthcare professionals, and creating meaningful career pathways that extend well beyond a single job placement.
Quick Tips for Healthcare Travel Success
1. Cast a Wide Net: Don’t limit yourself to working with just one recruiter. Multiple relationships mean more opportunities and better market insights.
2. Look Beyond the Paycheck: While compensation is important, consider the total package including experience, location, and growth potential.
3. Build Relationships: Your professional network becomes invaluable in travel healthcare, opening doors to future opportunities and providing support along the way.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Healthcare travel represents more than just a career choice – it’s a transformative lifestyle that combines professional growth with personal adventure. You’ll gain incredible experiences that expand your clinical expertise, develop adaptability that serves you throughout your career, and make meaningful differences in diverse patient populations across the country. The skills and connections you build as a traveler will serve you well throughout your entire healthcare career, whether you choose to travel long-term or eventually settle into a permanent position.
Ready to take the leap? Your adventure starts now, and the opportunities are endless. Remember, every experienced traveler started exactly where you are today – at the beginning of an exciting journey into healthcare travel.
Take Your First Step
Search thousands of healthcare travel positions on our job board or connect directly with one of our experienced recruiters to start planning your journey. Your next adventure is just a click away.
Uniti Med, a 
