by Beth Harner | May 29, 2026 | Uncategorized
From a solo nurse in an Alaskan critical access hospital to anchoring a brand-new facility partnership, Kimberly has redefined what it means to be a Uniti Med travel nurse with purpose and to care without limits. Here dedication has earned her Uniti Med’s DAISY award for April 2026.
What is the DAISY Award?
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is a nationwide recognition program created by the DAISY Foundation, an organization founded in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who died from complications of an autoimmune disease. Moved by the compassionate care Patrick received from his nurses, his family established the award to say “thank you” to nurses everywhere for the extraordinary difference they make in patients’ lives.
DAISY stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The award honors nurses who demonstrate outstanding clinical skill and compassionate care — going above and beyond what patients and families expect. Recipients are nominated by patients, families, and colleagues, making each honor a direct reflection of real-world impact. Learn more about the DAISY Foundation here.
Why Travel
Some nurses travel for the adventure. Some travel for the pay. Kimberly travels because of the work itself, the patient beside her, the team around her, the community she steps into that deserves her very best. It’s a philosophy that has earned her recognition from colleagues and facilities alike, and now it has earned her the Uniti Med DAISY award for April 2026.
Kimberly joined Uniti Med as a travel nurse in the summer of 2025, bringing with her a depth of experience across both acute care and long-term care settings. But what has set her apart isn’t just what she knows, it’s how she shows up.
Her first assignment placed her in rural Alaska, often as the sole nurse in a small critical access hospital. Rather than being daunted by the challenge, Kimberly leaned in asking thoughtful questions, learning building policies from the ground up, and building trust with the facility team before her first shift was even complete. She was quickly asked to extend her contract but chose to return home for the winter to be near her family, including her daughter, who is currently on her own LVN-to-RN journey. Like mother, like daughter.
Her second contract brought its own set of challenges — the demanding rhythms of a busy long-term care setting, high patient ratios, and limited support staff. Kimberly excelled anyway. Her recruiter noted that in their weekly calls, Kimberly never wavered in her commitment to going above and beyond for her patients, always remaining professional and focused on what mattered most.
“She remains professional and always maintains that she goes above and beyond for her patients’ needs. Kimberly is a true reflection of Uniti Med — working from the heart.” – Ally Beck, Recruiter
Brand New Partnership
Her third assignment may be her most impactful yet. Kimberly played a key role in helping Uniti Med secure a brand-new facility partnership, worked closely with management during the opening of a new wing, and has since been asked to extend. Facilities don’t just request her back; they advocate for her.
What makes Kimberly truly exceptional isn’t any single moment, it’s the consistency. Consistent care for her patients. Consistent communication with her recruiter. Consistent willingness to meet a new environment with curiosity rather than resistance. Across three very different assignments, in three very different settings, the feedback has been the same: Kimberly is extraordinary.
Congratulations, Kimberly. The Uniti Med DAISY Award recognizes nurses who embody compassionate, extraordinary care, and you have earned it in every corner of the country you’ve called home. We’re honored to have you as part of the Uniti Med family.
by Beth Harner | Sep 14, 2025 | Uncategorized
At Uniti Med, we are honored to highlight healthcare professionals who go above and beyond. Today, we celebrate Hillary, an incredible nurse whose compassion and dedication shine in every aspect of her life. From her patients in the hospital to communities across the globe, Hillary’s heart for service is unmatched.
What Makes Hillary an Incredible Nurse? 
Hillary is an outstanding nurse because she goes beyond traditional patient care. She not only provides exceptional medical attention but also forms genuine relationships with her patients. Many of these bonds extend far past the hospital walls, as she often stays in touch after they are discharged. Hillary’s approach shows that great nursing is not just about treatment, it’s about compassion, connection, and trust.
A DAISY Award–Winning Nurse
In recognition of her dedication, Hillary was honored with the prestigious DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. This award is reserved for nurses who provide exceptional care, show deep compassion, and create meaningful experiences for patients and their families. Winning this award reflects Hillary’s commitment to excellence and the impact she has on those around her. It’s not just a professional achievement, it’s a testament to her character, her heart, and her ability to inspire others in the field of nursing.
A Life Rooted in Family and Community
Hillary lives in Florida, near her daughter and first granddaughter. Despite hurricanes devastating the area, she has worked tirelessly to help repair both her home and her daughter’s. This selflessness reflects her unwavering commitment to family and community.
A Global Mission to Help Others
Every year, Hillary dedicates time to a medical mission trip. She has traveled to South America numerous times with a not-for-profit organization, providing critical healthcare to underserved communities. These trips demonstrate her passion for helping others and her dedication to serving those in need, no matter where they are.
A True Ambassador for Uniti Med
Award-winning nurse Hillary and Uniti Med recruiter, Justin, on a fishing trip in Alaska.
Hillary exemplifies what it means to be a travel healthcare professional and a Uniti Med ambassador. Her compassion, generosity, and dedication make her a shining example of the kind of nurses we are proud to represent.
“Words cannot express how grateful I am to be chosen for this award. I am truly thankful for the opportunities you have provided for me. Receiving this award is a moment I will cherish forever. Thank you for acknowledging the hard work and passion in my daily patient care. Your belief in my abilities has motivated me to continue to strive for excellence every day.” Hillary gratefully commented.
Key Takeaway
From winning the DAISY Award to serving on international medical missions, Hillary proves every day that nursing is more than a career, it’s a calling. Her story highlights why nurses are the heart of healthcare, and at Uniti Med, we are proud to celebrate her.
Learn more about the DAISY award here.
by Beth Harner | Jul 18, 2023 | Uncategorized
Uniti Med is absolutely thrilled to announce that they have clinched an impressive #2 ranking on BluePipes’ highly coveted Best Travel Nursing Company list for 2023! Outshining over 420 competitors in the travel nursing industry, Uniti Med has truly proven their excellence in providing top-notch nursing services. This remarkable achievement is a result of an exhaustive evaluation process, which involved meticulously scrutinizing reviews from six different platforms. By carefully tallying review counts and assessing review scores in comparison to the previous year, BluePipes has crafted an exclusive top 20 list that showcases the absolute best in the field. Discover the methodology behind calculating these rankings and delve into the details of the Best Travel Nursing Companies list here. Join us in celebrating Uniti Med’s well-deserved recognition as a leading force in the travel nursing world!
What Making the BluePipes 2023 List Means to Uniti Med
“This recognition is so meaningful.” Said Chad Crawford, VP of Sales, “Our recruiters strive to not only create the best experience for the travelers we work with but to also to make a positive impact in their lives. This is done by offering up our expertise in the job market and fostering genuine friendships that remain even after traveling is complete. This award validates so much of what we strive to be and the care that we have for all those that we work with.
President and COO, Chris Sund added, “This recognition means a lot to us, because it’s based on the incredible feedback from our healthcare professionals. Their trust and satisfaction are what drive us to continuously improve and provide exceptional experiences. They are the reason why we work so hard and why we love what we do!”
What is BluePipes?
BluePipes is a travel healthcare website dedicated to the industry that connects healthcare professionals with travel agencies to aid them in finding a position. BluePipes.com has a wealth of valuable insights, resources, and can help travelers with document, pay and relationship management. To learn more about BluePipes see our BluePipes blog post.
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 as a Great Places to Work For, Clearly Rated Best of Staffing Talent, SIA’s Best Staffing Firms to work for and is a Best Places to Work in Omaha. For more information on Uniti Med visit: unitimed.com.
by Jamie Zarlingo | Jul 11, 2023 | Informational, Uncategorized
Are you intrigued by the idea of starting your healthcare adventure? Maybe you’re looking for insights and inspiration from experienced travel nurses who have traveled the country while making a positive impact on people’s lives. Well, you’re in luck! We are excited to announce that we are collaborating with the Gypsy Nurse on a travel nurse webinar. This webinar brings together a panel of three travel nurses (one of whom is also a recruiter), all with unique experiences and stories to share.
Webinar Details
What: Travel Nurse Panel
When: July 20th @ 3:00 PM EST
Where: Gypsy Nurse + Uniti Med Webinar
Meet Our Travel Nurse Panel:
Megan Emmerich, RN
With over 15 years experience in the healthcare industry, Megan made the bold decision to become a travel nurse just over a year ago. She has since embarked on assignments in North Dakota, Arizona, and Colorado! Megan’s adventurous spirit extends beyond the hospital walls as she loves backpacking escapades through national parks. Join the webinar to hear about her experiences and learn how to begin your travel nursing adventure!
Holly Hartgrave, RN, BSN
For more than 5 years, Holly has dedicated her expertise to bedside nursing. However, her thirst for adventure led her to embark on her travel nursing path alongside her husband and two cats. Holly’s vibrant personality is matched by her preparedness, as she carries an umbrella even on the sunniest of days. Tune in on the 20th to hear Holly’s insights on managing a nomadic lifestyle and being a travel nurse!
Mackenzie Fischer, RN, BSN
Mackenzie has traversed both sides of the travel nursing world, first as a dedicated travel nurse and now as a nurse recruiter with Uniti Med. Armed with insider knowledge and a passion for supporting fellow nurses, Mackenzie is an invaluable resource for those navigating their own travel nursing journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to tap into her expertise and gain invaluable insights into the world of travel nursing.
Join Uniti Med and Gypsy Nurse as we bring together a dynamic panel of travel nurses who have walked the path you aspire to tread. Discover the secrets to success, learn how to balance work and adventure, and gather the inspiration you need to embark on your own rewarding travel nursing career.
Mark your calendars for July 20th at 3:00 PM EST and secure your spot at the webinar. Come prepared with questions, an open mind, and a genuine eagerness to learn from these remarkable individuals who have embraced the nomadic lifestyle of travel nursing.
To register for the webinar and secure your spot, visit the Gypsy Nurse. We look forward to seeing you there and helping you set off on an incredible journey as a travel nurse!
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!
