by Jamie Zarlingo | Jul 10, 2023 | Uncategorized
Travel nursing has increased in popularity over the past few years and for good reason. Being a travel nurse offers many benefits and opportunities staff nurses do not normally receive. The profession attracts a variety of people; however, if you are passionate about nursing, adventure, and exploring new horizons then travel nursing might be right for you! Imagine immersing yourself in different regions, experiencing breathtaking landscapes, and meeting new people, all while advancing your career as a healthcare professional. Keep reading as we discuss the top 10 reasons why it has become an amazing choice for adventurous nurses seeking both personal and professional growth.
1. Higher Pay
It is no secret that many people are drawn to travel nursing because of the opportunity for higher pay compared to full-time nursing positions. According to Indeed, RNs earn an average of $91,000 per year, while travel nurses can earn an average of $120,000 per year.
Travel nursing offers the opportunity to earn a higher income due to the demand for specialized skills in different regions of the country and their willingness to take on temporary assignments. The higher earning potential for travel nursing affords you the flexibility to pursue your financial goals more rapidly, such as saving more for retirement, a down payment on a home, or investing in your future. Travel nursing can be a strategic choice for many nurses who seek professional growth and financial success.
2. Flexible Schedule
When it comes to achieving a work-life balance and enjoying a greater sense of freedom, travel nursing shines as a career choice. As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose where and when you want to work. Unlike full-time nurses who are bound to a specific healthcare facility, travel nurses have the freedom to select their assignments from a wide range of opportunities across different cities, states, or even countries. This flexibility enables you to curate your professional journey and explore diverse healthcare settings while pursuing your passion for travel and adventure.
Travel nursing allows you to achieve a more harmonious work-life balance. By selecting assignments with specific durations, you have the flexibility to plan your personal life around your work commitments. Whether you desire extended periods off between assignments to recharge and spend quality time with loved ones or prefer a continuous flow of assignments to maximize your income, travel nursing grants you the autonomy to design your schedule according to your unique needs and priorities.
3. Travel Opportunities
Have you ever dreamt of exploring breathtaking landscapes, immersing yourself in vibrant cultures, and embarking on unforgettable adventures? As a travel nurse, you have the unique privilege of turning these dreams into reality. You could be surfing on the beaches of California in the Summer and exploring the windy city of Chicago in the Fall!
Travel nursing brings adventure to your fingertips. From hiking majestic mountains to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or exploring historic landmarks, each destination offers its unique blend of adventure and excitement. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, travel nursing allows you to indulge in thrilling activities and create unforgettable moments during your downtime. With each assignment, you have the chance to embark on a new adventure and make lifelong memories, like Justin who was able to build a cabin in Alaska because of travel nursing!
4. Ability to Work in Different Healthcare Settings
One of the greatest advantages of being a travel nurse is the exposure to various healthcare settings and environments. You can gain invaluable experience by working in different hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or even specialty centers. This breadth of experience not only enhances your professional growth but also enables you to adapt to different work cultures and healthcare practices. The ability to embrace change and thrive in diverse environments is a highly valued skill that travel nursing nurtures.
5. Opportunity to Learn New Skills
As a nurse, it is important to understand the value of being a lifelong learner to better assist your patients. In the world of travel nursing, you are given the opportunity to acquire and refine a diverse set of skills. Each assignment will immerse you in a new environment, exposing you to different healthcare practices, technologies, and patients. This exposure enhances your adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. As you navigate these varied settings, you develop the versatility to excel in a range of healthcare scenarios, making you a valuable asset to future employers.
Due to the nature of travel nursing, you will learn to be independent and self-reliant, which can develop your leadership skills. Your varied experiences will offer valuable insight for leadership roles in the future.
6. Chance to Pad Out Your Resume
It is always important to have an eye-catching resume when advancing your career. As a travel nurse, you possess a unique advantage: diverse experiences and skills. Travel nursing allows you to work in a multitude of healthcare settings, from bustling urban hospitals to rural clinics and everything in between. Each assignment adds a new entry to your resume, showcasing your adaptability and ability to thrive in different work environments. Employers value candidates with a range of experiences, and travel nursing provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your versatility, making your resume stand out from the crowd.
7. Meet New People
Nursing, like every career, benefits from having a strong network of people. You will work alongside people with different backgrounds, building connections that will help you advance your career in the future. More experienced travel nurses are often willing to share their wisdom and insights with those starting their journey. By connecting with seasoned travel nurses, you can benefit from their experiences, advice, and guidance. These mentorship relationships can be instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities that travel nursing presents, helping you make informed decisions and accelerate your personal and professional growth.
8. Less Burnout and Better Mental Health
Part of being a travel nurse is being able to travel and experience different regions of the country. As you embark on exciting assignments in various cities and regions, you gain firsthand experience of different environments, cultures, and lifestyles. In this section, we will delve into how travel nursing empowers you to find your ideal destination, allowing you to make an informed decision about where you want to establish your roots and build a fulfilling life and career.
Travel nursing offers you the chance to test-drive different cities, towns, and regions, immersing yourself in their unique atmospheres and lifestyles. Each assignment allows you to experience the day-to-day life in a particular area, exploring its neighborhoods, engaging with the local community, and discovering its hidden gems. This firsthand experience provides you with valuable insights into the culture, amenities, climate, and overall vibe of a place, helping you assess whether it resonates with your personal preferences and long-term goals.
9. Take Breaks Between Contracts
Being a nurse is not easy. The long hours face paced and stressful work environment, and healthcare shortage have all contributed to an increasing burnout rate for nurses. Burnout is a serious issue in the workplace and can have multiple consequences. From being exhausted physically and mentally to poorer job performance and medical mistakes, burnout needs to be addressed to keep you at your best.
Traveling can boost your mental health and your physical well-being. A study from the Journal of Vacation Marketing found that people who are about to travel are much happier with their life as a whole, and experience fewer negative feelings. Being able to travel to new places allows you to change your scenery and avoid feeling stagnant.
10. Discover Where You Want to Settle Down
Imagine the possibilities as a travel nurse, where you are free to shape your work according to your preferences and aspirations. Seeking financial growth? Take charge by lining up back-to-back contracts, paving the way for incredible earnings. Need a breather to recharge and explore new horizons? Feel empowered to pause and relish those precious moments between contracts. As a travel nurse, you hold the reins to your work-life balance, allowing you to savor a fulfilling career while maintaining control over your personal journey.
Conclusion
Embarking on a travel nursing journey can unlock a wealth of personal and professional rewards. If you love exploration, crave new experiences, value work-life balance autonomy, and seek higher earnings, then travel nursing is your ticket to fulfillment. Start an adventure where your passion for travel and healthcare intertwines harmoniously. To kickstart your travel adventure with a reputable agency, be sure to explore BluePipes’ list of the best travel nursing agencies!
If you want to learn more about the job opportunities available, have one of our recruiters reach out to you!
by Beth Harner | Jun 12, 2023 | Awards, Uncategorized
Uniti Med is proud to announce that we have won the Best of Staffing Talent Award for providing superior service to their candidates. Presented in partnership with presenting sponsor Indeed and gold sponsor Talent.com, ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award winners have proven to be industry leaders in service quality based entirely on ratings provided by their candidates. On average, job seekers who work with winning agencies are [1.8 times OR 80%] more likely to be completely satisfied with the services provided compared to those placed by non-winning agencies. Uniti Med received satisfaction score of 9 or 10 from 88.8% of their placed job candidates, significantly higher than the industry’s average of 45%. Uniti Med also received a Net Promoter® Score of 86.6%, more than 4.5 times the industry’s average of 19% in 2022. Thank you to all the travelers that took the survey.
“We are extremely proud to announce that Uniti Med has been awarded the Best of Staffing – Talent Satisfaction accolade by ClearlyRated. This recognition holds immense significance for us as we continuously strive to ensure an exception experience for our healthcare travelers. Our success is a result of the strong relationships we cultivate, which in turn enhance the quality and value of the services we provide. This achievement motivates us to continue our efforts in improving and enhancing our overall experience.” Said President and COO, Chris Sund.
“I am pleased to introduce the 2023 Best of Staffing winners alongside their validated service ratings on ClearlyRated.com,” said ClearlyRated’s CEO, Eric Gregg. “These firms have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to delivering amazing experiences, despite another year of upheaval and macroeconomic uncertainty. Hats off to these service leaders – it’s truly an honor to recognize and celebrate their achievements.”
About Uniti Med
Uniti Med is a medical staffing company founded in 2021 that is dedicated to placing travelers in premier locations around the United States. Starting in the heart of Omaha the corporate office has grown to over 100 employees. Uniti Med is proud to be recognized as a Best of Omaha employer, certified through Great Places to Work for 2023. For more information on Uniti Med visit: unitimed.com.
About ClearlyRated
Rooted in satisfaction research for professional service firms, ClearlyRated utilizes a Net Promoter® Score survey program to help professional service firms measure their service experience, build online reputation, and differentiate on service quality. Learn more at https://www.clearlyrated.com/solutions/.
About Best of Staffing
ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award is the only award in the U.S. and Canada that recognizes staffing agencies that have proven superior service quality based entirely on ratings provided by their clients, placed talent, and internal employees. Award winners are showcased by city and area of expertise on ClearlyRated.com—an online business directory that helps buyers of professional services find service leaders and vet prospective firms with the help of validated client ratings and testimonials.
Proud winners of ClearlyRated Best of Staffing Talent Satisfaction for 2023!
by Nicole Phelps | Jun 9, 2023 | Uncategorized
New Jersey recently announced the implementation of the Physical Therapy Compact, granting compact privileges to eligible practitioners effective June 1, 2023. This initiative marks a milestone in improving mobility and expanding professional opportunities for physical therapists across state borders.
The Physical Therapy Compact is an agreement between member states that improves access to physical therapy services. It enables eligible physical therapists to obtain a compact privilege, which eliminates the need for separate licenses when practicing in other compact member states.
“Previously, physical therapists had to navigate complex and time-consuming licensure processes to practice in multiple states,” said Sara McKean, allied manager at Uniti Med. “This new system streamlines the process, reducing costs and paperwork for the traveler.”
Benefits of the PT Compact
The PT Compact offers several benefits, including enhanced mobility, collaborative opportunities, professional growth and expanded access to care.
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- Enhanced Mobility: Physical therapists in New Jersey can now explore job opportunities in other compact member states more easily. This allows them to gain new professional experiences, work in diverse healthcare settings, and address shortages in underserved areas.
- Collaboration and Professional Growth: Practitioners can engage in collaborative efforts, knowledge sharing, and professional development across a broader network. This fosters a culture of learning and innovation, benefiting individual practitioners and the field of physical therapy.
- Expanded Access to Care: Furthermore, the implementation of the PT Compact contributes to expanding access to quality healthcare services across state lines. Physical therapists can respond more readily to regional healthcare needs, especially in areas facing shortages of healthcare professionals.
Read the News Release from the PT Compact.
And for those considering travel PT, Uniti Med is available to help. Contact a Uniti Med recruiter today!
by Beth Harner | May 23, 2023 | Uncategorized
In the ever-changing world of healthcare, travel healthcare professionals are a crucial part of the workforce, tackling staff shortages and delivering top-notch patient care. But let’s be real, travel healthcare staffing has its fair share of challenges and opportunities. While big cities have been able to attract healthcare professionals, rural areas are struggling due to limited local resources. Staffing shortages are now the biggest worry for healthcare CEOs, beating out financial issues, according to the American College of Healthcare Executives’ annual survey. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the current state of the healthcare staffing industry, the financial challenges hospitals face, the growing need for healthcare professionals in rural areas, as well as the opportunities and challenges that come with it.
Money Troubles Hospitals Face
Hospitals all over the US are wrestling with financial challenges, which directly affect their ability to maintain a strong workforce. As a result, they’re exploring different options to address their staffing needs. But these challenges hit harder in rural healthcare facilities where local pools of healthcare professionals are scarce, making recruitment a time-consuming process. The unavailability of these professionals in such areas puts patient care at risk.
Impact on Patient Care
The American Hospital Association reports that workforce shortages in post-acute and behavioral health facilities are making it increasingly difficult for hospitals to discharge patients efficiently and appropriately. This means patients end up staying in inpatient beds longer than needed, resulting in higher costs for hospitals without proper reimbursement. Moreover, inpatients today are generally sicker and require more intense care than before the pandemic, which adds to hospitals’ expenses. Medicare’s fixed reimbursement for inpatient stays doesn’t consider the length of the stay, making the financial burden on hospitals even worse. Shockingly, health care consulting firm Kaufman Hall estimates that hospitals’ expenses are projected to increase by $135 billion in 2022 compared to the previous year, and nearly 68% of hospitals may end up operating at a financial loss. According to a recent article in Healthcare Dive, these financial pressures are worsened by staff and bed shortages at post-acute care and inpatient psychiatric facilities, as well as delays in insurer authorizations, leading to longer hospital stays and lower discharge rates.
Healthcare Workforce Shortage
The shortage of healthcare workers is not a new problem and actually predates the COVID-19 pandemic. According to projections from the American Hospital Association, by 2033, the US could be facing a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians, and at least 200,000 nurses will need to be hired annually to meet the increasing demand and replace retiring nurses. On top of that, there are critical shortages in allied health and behavioral health professionals, especially in rural and urban communities that historically lack sufficient healthcare resources. For instance, AHA survey data shows that between 2019 and 2020, job vacancies for various types of nursing personnel increased by up to 30%, and for respiratory therapists by 31%. These shortages are expected to persist, with an analysis of EMSI data indicating a shortage of up to 3.2 million healthcare workers by 2026. To tackle these workforce shortages, we need supportive policies. Providing enough residency slots, especially for primary care and behavioral health specialties, is crucial to meet the growing demand. Additionally, initiatives aimed at recruiting and retaining nursing faculty, improving salaries for nursing educators, and enhancing clinical training opportunities are necessary to overcome the limitations faced by nursing schools.
Need for Healthcare Staffing in Rural Areas
Despite the challenges faced in the current state of the healthcare staffing industry there is a significant demand for healthcare professionals willing to work in rural areas. These regions lack local resources to quickly replace healthcare professionals when they leave, making recruitment a lengthy process. By choosing to work in rural areas, healthcare professionals can make a real difference in underserved communities and ensure access to quality care for patients who desperately need it. If you are interested in looking in to traveling to a rural area you can search our open jobs here.
Opportunities in Travel Healthcare Staffing
Flexibility and Adventure: Imagine being able to travel to different places while doing what you love. That’s what travel healthcare staffing is all about! You get to explore new locations, experience diverse cultures, and have some amazing adventures. It’s a fantastic way to grow both personally and professionally.
High Demand: Healthcare professionals are in high demand, everywhere! Nurses, doctors, and other medical experts are needed all over the United States and beyond. So, if you’re looking for job opportunities, travel healthcare staffing has got your back. You’ll always find assignments waiting for you.
Competitive Compensation: Money talks, right? Well, in travel healthcare staffing, it definitely does. On top of your regular pay, you can score some awesome perks. Think housing stipends, travel allowances, and even healthcare coverage. The financial rewards make travel healthcare staffing an attractive choice for those seeking better pay.
Professional Growth and Development: If you’re hungry for growth, travel assignments are the way to go. You’ll get exposure to various clinical settings, different patient populations, and cutting-edge medical technologies. This exposure will expand your skills, boost your knowledge, and make you super adaptable. Talk about a fast track to professional development!
Challenges in Travel Healthcare Staffing
Adaptability and Learning Curve: Each new assignment comes with its own set of challenges. You’ll need to quickly adapt to new healthcare systems, policies, and electronic record systems. It can be tough if you prefer a stable and predictable work environment. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure!
Separation from Home and Loved Ones: The downside of travel healthcare staffing is being away from home and your loved ones. It’s not easy being far from family and friends for extended periods. It can take an emotional toll, especially if you rely on a strong support system.
Licensing and Credentialing: Getting and maintaining licenses and credentials can be a bit of a hassle. Every location has its own requirements, which means paperwork and administrative work. It can be time-consuming and frustrating, but it’s a necessary step in the travel healthcare journey.
Uncertain Work Environments: Sometimes, you’ll find yourself in understaffed facilities or regions facing healthcare crises. These work environments can be demanding, and you’ll need to rise to the challenge. But remember, you’re making a difference and providing much-needed care in these tough situations.
The current state of healthcare staffing industry reflects the broader challenges faced by healthcare facilities across the United States. Financial pressures, workforce shortages, and the increasing demand for quality care require proactive measures and supportive policies. By recognizing the importance of travel healthcare professionals, especially in rural areas, we can bridge the staffing gap and ensure access to healthcare services for all communities.
by Nicole Phelps | May 17, 2023 | Uncategorized
May 18 is a special day devoted to honoring the hard work and contributions of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). National Speech-Language Pathologist Day recognizes the dedicated professionals who make a profound difference in the lives of individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. Let’s take a moment to celebrate and appreciate the vital role that SLPs play in enhancing communication and enriching the quality of life for so many.
The Importance of Speech-Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists are highly trained healthcare professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat individuals of all ages with various communication disorders. They play a crucial role in helping people overcome challenges related to speech, language, voice, and swallowing. SLPs work with a diverse range of clients, including children with language delays, adults recovering from strokes or traumatic brain injuries, individuals with speech disorders, and those struggling with voice disorders or swallowing difficulties.
Supporting Communication Development & Improving Quality of Life
Communication is fundamental to human interaction and plays a significant role in every aspect of our lives. SLPs are experts in understanding the intricacies of speech and language and employ their expertise to support individuals in achieving effective communication skills. Through specialized assessments and therapies tailored to individual needs, SLPs provide invaluable guidance and support, helping clients improve their ability to express themselves, understand others, and engage in meaningful social interactions.
For those facing communication and swallowing difficulties, SLPs offer hope and catalysts for positive change. They empower individuals to regain their independence, confidence, and autonomy in their daily lives. By addressing communication challenges, SLPs enable children to succeed in school, adults excel in their careers, and seniors maintain social connections, enhancing overall quality of life for their clients and their families.
Speech-language pathologists not only provide direct therapy but also serve as advocates for individuals with communication disorders. They collaborate with other professionals, educators, and families to ensure support and accommodations are in place. SLPs also play a role in raising awareness about the importance of communication health, advocating for inclusive practices, and promoting early intervention to maximize outcomes for those in need.
Expressing Gratitude
On National Speech-Language Pathologist Day we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to all SLPs for their commitment and efforts in making a positive impact on countless lives. Their expertise and compassion empower individuals to overcome challenges and fulfill their potential and their contributions deserve our utmost gratitude and recognition.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) celebrates Better Speech and Language Month in May.
Considering travel SLP? Talk to a Uniti Med recruiter today!
by Nicole Phelps | May 6, 2023 | Uncategorized
Nurses Week is a week-long celebration that takes place every year from May 6-12. This special week is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our travel nurses. Nurses are often the unsung heroes of healthcare, providing critical support and care to patients in a wide variety of settings. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Nurses Week and why it is so important to celebrate and honor the incredible work of nurses.
History of Nurses Week
Nurses Week was first observed in the United States in 1954, on the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s famous mission to Crimea. Florence Nightingale is widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing and is known for her pioneering work in improving sanitary conditions and nursing care in military hospitals during the Crimean War. In honor of her legacy, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) declared May 12 as International Nurses Day. The week surrounding May 12 was later designated as Nurses Week in the United States.
Why Celebrating Nurses Week is Important
Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system, providing essential support and care to patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They are often the first point of contact for patients, and they provide a wide range of services, including administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. Nurses also work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and therapists, to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Nurses Week provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the important contributions that travel nurses make to our healthcare system. It is a time to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication, and to acknowledge the challenges that they face in their daily work.
Celebrating Nurses Week
Nurses Week is celebrated in a variety of ways, including special events, educational programs, and community outreach. Many brands provide special discounts, offers and even free products during Nurses Week. It’s just a small way of thanking nurses for providing the invaluable care that they give, so go ahead and treat yourself to a coffee, a burrito, or a new outfit. Some websites to check out these offerings are:
Nurse.org
AACN.org
Thekrazycopuonlady.com
Thenursepurse.com
In addition to recognition events, Nurses Week is also a time for education and outreach. Many organizations use this week as an opportunity to raise awareness about the important role that nurses play in healthcare and to promote nursing as a profession. They may hold educational programs, offer scholarships and other incentives, and engage with the community to promote awareness and appreciation for nurses.
A Final Note on Nurses Week
Nurses Week is an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate the hard work and dedication of travel nursing. It is a time to show appreciation for their vital role in healthcare and to acknowledge the challenges that they face in their daily work. By recognizing and celebrating Nurses Week, we can help to raise awareness about the important contributions that nurses make to our healthcare system. Uniti Med would like to take a moment to thank all travel nurses in our lives for their hard work and dedication, not just during Nurses Week, but every day of the year.
Considering travel nursing? Our recruiters are ready to help you take the next step! Talk to a recruiter today.
