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.
by Nicole Phelps | May 4, 2023 | Uncategorized
BluePipes.com is a travel healthcare website dedicated to the healthcare industry that connects healthcare professionals with top travel agencies and aids them to find the best travel jobs in the United States. With a wide range of resources and features designed specifically for healthcare travelers, Bluepipes.com is the go-to platform for many travelers.
Travel Healthcare as an Industry
Travel healthcare is a unique career option that allows professionals to work in different healthcare facilities across the country on a temporary basis. Travel nurses are in high demand, and the benefits of this career path are numerous. Some of the most common benefits of healthcare travel includes higher pay, the opportunity to explore different parts of the country, and the ability to gain valuable experience working in a variety of healthcare settings.
How BluePipes.com Helps Travelers
Finding the right travel assignment can be a daunting task. That’s where Bluepipes.com comes in. This platform offers a wealth of resources that can help healthcare professionals find their dream travel position. Here are just a few of the ways that Bluepipes.com can help travelers:
Five Ways BluePipes.com Can Help You Find Your Next Assignment
1. Industry information: Bluepipes.com has an extensive database of industry topics on their blog. You can find information such as how to find housing, understanding traveler pay packages, to even help understanding your taxes. They also offer a pay calculator that can help travelers recognize and record pay details to compare pay packages.
2. Job search tools: Bluepipes.com offers a comprehensive job search tool that allows travelers to search for travel assignments based on their preferences. Users can filter by location, specialty, pay rate, and more to find the travel healthcare jobs that best fit their needs. Narrowing down what you want at your next assignment can help you find those real gems of assignments.
View Uniti Med jobs on the BluePipes website.
3. Credential management: Bluepipes.com offers a free credential management tool that allows users to keep all their important documents and certifications in one place. This can save a lot of time and hassle when applying for new travel jobs. Having these documents saved digitally will make your application process practically pain free.
Some of the features are that you can download your profile in two resume formats, record everything a hiring manager requires, track your skills checklist, and render your profile as a job application including background questions and signing statements. Perhaps the most useful feature is that you can upload your credentials and tag them with contents, notes, and expiration dates to stay current. Keeping your licenses up to date could be key in signing your next contract.
4. Resume builder: Bluepipes.com offers a free resume builder that allows users to create a professional-looking resume in just a few minutes. This can be a huge help when applying for travel positions since there is a lot of information that needs to be kept organized when working at a variety of facilities. Keeping track of every facility you work at is important because most agencies will want to see your work history for the last seven years.
5. Community support: Bluepipes.com has a large community of travel nurses who can offer support, advice, and information about the travel nursing lifestyle. Users can connect with other travel healthcare professionals through the platform’s messaging system. This can be a great way to connect, ask questions, and learn about other facilities that you may want to go to work at or even find out what other travelers are doing for fun at their assignments. You can even connect with recruiters to centralize your communication regarding travel assignments with the recruiters and companies that you love.
View the Uniti Med BluePipes profile page.
Overall, Bluepipes.com is an invaluable resource for travel healthcare professionals who are interested in travel positions. With its job search tools, agency reviews, credential management tool, resume builder, and community support, BluePipes.com is the ultimate platform for anyone looking to take their healthcare career on the road.
Learn more about Uniti Med.
by Beth Harner | Apr 24, 2023 | Uncategorized
Rich Anderson, the CEO of Uniti Med based in Omaha, NE, is pleased to announce that Chris Sund has been promoted to the role of President and COO at Uniti Med. Drawing on over seven years of healthcare staffing experience, Sund will lead the company’s operations and drive its growth. “I am delighted to offer this promotion to Chris as a token of our appreciation and admiration. Chris’s invaluable contribution to our business has resulted in a remarkable 700% growth, and he exemplifies our corporate values of respect, integrity, perseverance, and community, which we hold in high regard. “said Anderson.
In the last two years, Sund has established a distinct workplace culture that emphasizes leading with heart. Under his leadership, the company has been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named among SIA’s Best Staffing Firms to Work For, the Best Places to Work in Omaha, Top Employer in Omaha Magazine’s Best of Omaha, and earning Great Place to Work certification in 2023. “It is a privilege to lead a team of talented and skilled professionals at Uniti Med, and I am grateful for the opportunity. Our team is one of the most committed and compassionate groups I have worked with in the healthcare staffing industry. We will continue to build a legacy of delivering a best-in-class experience for our healthcare professionals, clients, business partners, community, and employees. I look forward to helping our team propel Uniti Med to being a major contributor for healthcare workforce solutions and creating an exceptional and inspiring place to work.” said Sund.
“Chris is truly an inspiration with his impactful contributions and unwavering dedication to the healthcare industry.” said Chad Crawford, VP of Sales at Uniti Med. “He understands the significant impact healthcare workers have and consistently reminds us of the importance of our work. For Chris, helping people is the ultimate driving force, and he is committed to giving his best to this industry from his core.”
According to Micaela Zimmer, Director of Culture, “Chris is a remarkable leader who sets the example by leading from the front and is always the first to encourage us to volunteer in the community. He truly believes in making a difference and emphasizes the importance of it. Chris’s positivity radiates throughout the team, and he is approachable, making him the kind of leader we hope our children will work with someday. He brings out the best in everyone and we are grateful to have him on our team. Chris genuinely cares about people’s stories and reminds us of how we impact each other.”
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. For more information on Uniti Med visit: unitimed.com.
