You've got questions,
we've got answers:
Find answers for some of the most commonly asked questions for Healthcare Professionals, so you can make an informed decision.
Start by selecting a category below, and if you don't find the answer to your question, you can always contact your us or your recruiter! We'd be happy to help.
Questions about Travel Nursing?
Questions about Per Diem Nursing?
Questions about Home Healthcare & Private Duty?
Questions about Compensation & Benefits?
Questions about CareStaf?
Becoming a healthcare travel nurse
It's easy. Fill out an application and get in touch with a recruiter who can answer your questions and begin the hiring process! The only thing we need to get you started on your journey is an application and a resume. You can apply in less than 5 minutes via our Quick Apply page, however, if you're eager to get started ASAP, you can submit everything we'll need to place you in a job HERE.
Once we've got your application, we can begin to work with you to find potential assignments across the country that meets your needs and goals; This process is specifically tailored to you! When you find a job you want, your recruiter will work behind the scenes to get you submitted for that assignment and be there to lead you through the process every step of the way.
Finding the right job as a traveling HCP
If you don't have any particular city or state in mind, feel free to submit a general application via our Quick Apply page. We will work to find the right options for you. However, if you have your sights set on a specific journey already, take a look at our list of currently available jobs all across the country here. You can search by title, specialty, and specific location. If you're not seeing anything that interests you, don't hesitate to reach out. We have open travel healthcare assignments practically everywhere, and we're certain we will be able to find the perfect one for you.
Travel nursing assignment length
Typically, the industry standard is 13 weeks in length per assignment, but they can range anywhere from just a month to as long as 6 months! While you do have an obligation to finish your assignment as contracted, there is absolutely nothing binding you to work more assignments at that facility afterwards, or even at all. You're welcome to redeploy on an assignment at the same facility, or another assignment right after your last, or to take a break. How little or how much you work is entirely on your terms! Your recruiter will advocate for anything you need, they are there to help.
When can I start?!
After your application and once your recruiter has provided you some options to pursue, your recruiter will set you up with an interview with the facility's representative. If both you and the facility decide to move forward, it can take typically anywhere between 1 and 4 weeks to get started. This is all dependent upon the start date of the assignment and your subsequent availability, but you will have already been provided this information by your recruiter.
Additionally, we usually begin presenting you with new career opportunities and assignments around 4 weeks from the end of your current assignment. This way, we can set you up with no lapse in work, if you're interested in an assignment at a different healthcare facility.
I'm officially a travel nurse... What now?
Around 4 weeks from the end of your current assignment, your recruiter will reach out to you to begin discuss options for your next opportunity or to see if you're happy where you're at and looking to extend your assignment. However, it is entirely your decisions on whether you'd like to extend (if the facility is willing), start another assignment elsewhere, or take some time off-assignment. Of course, you're more than welcome to get a head start on looking for your next placement by checking what open jobs we have available here.
Why should I travel?
There are PLENTY of reasons as to why you should consider traveling over a local job; Of course there are the logistical ones like better pay, more health benefits, paid lodging, numerous loyalty and sign-on bonuses, resume building, and networking. But you should also consider the many other personal benefits: Traveling to new and exciting places, the flexibility (and extra money) to do things you love outside of work, the opportunity to make a massive impact on communities in need, just to name a few. Plus, many veteran travel nurses that continually take jobs throughout the country say that traveling helps them avoid nurse burnout!
Read more about the exciting opportunities traveling can provide via our blog post here.
This isn't to say that travel nursing is easier than local nursing, typically this on-the-go lifestyle is ideal for the types of people who can adapt quickly to surroundings, rise to challenges, have a sense of exploration and flexibility with locations, as well as the ability to back up their clinical skills. It never hurts to take a chance and see what it's all about. If you don't like it, don't worry! We can also help you find contract and even full-time jobs close to home as well.
Am I even allowed to work somewhere else?
Almost all states in America (around 40) are a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (the NLC), which is a very handy governmental program which allows for your rights to practice in states that are members of the compact. Read more information about the NLC here!
What if my travel assignment is in a non-compact state?
If your assignment is for a facility in which you might need to apply for a new state license, your recruiter will work with you every step of the way to get you certified. We are experts, we know how long the application and certification process takes, what it requires, and how much it will cost. If a new license or certification is required for your assignment, not only will we set everything up for you, but we will reimburse you for the cost. This is a great way to build up your repertoire of certifications and build out your clinical skills and resume for future opportunities.
I've filled out an application, but I'm just checking my options
The information you share with us is entirely confidential, and we will never begin the submission process with a facility using your resume without your explicit approval prior. This gives you plenty of reason to shop around and explore your options so we can find you the best assignment for your personal goals and situation before signing a contract.
Is traveling expensive or are you going to charge me a fee?
No. Hard stop. If you choose to travel with CareStaf, you become an official employee of CareStaf and we pay you with the money we are paid by the facility.
What about living expenses while on assignment?
Your recruiter will work 1:1 with you to work out a plan for everything on your assignment: Food, transportation, housing. They are experts in the costs you may encounter and how we can support you while on assignment, specifically for that particular location. Think of your recruiter as your own specialty travel agent! We will coordinate a stipend schedule for you to make sure you're comfortably taken care of.
Our team of experts, here to help:
At CareStaf, our recruiters go above & beyond to support you, and genuinely care about your well-being . They understand the challenges nurses face and are experts at looking out for your best interests - From career guidance to personal support, your recruiter is here to ensure your success & happiness .
Have a question?
Our team of experts,
here to help:
At CareStaf, our recruiters go above & beyond
to support you, and genuinely care aboutyour well-being. They understand the challenges nurses face and are experts at looking out for your best interests - From career guidance to personal support, your recruiter is here to ensure your
success & happiness