Blog Post

Curious about the world of travel healthcare assignments? Know of a few friends who love being on the road? Want to know more before committing to a contract? No problem, you’ve come to the right place! Embarking on a new assignment can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience for any first-time traveler. Traveling as a healthcare professional offers a unique opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities, gain fresh experiences, and meet new people. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are seven tips to help first-time travelers make the most out of their first assignments.

Research the Location

Before being submitted to a travel assignment, let alone accepting an offer, you should research the location and familiarize yourself with the area. The top of the list includes looking into the prices of lodging in the area, general cost of living, transportation, and weather patterns for that time of year. More on the fun side of the spectrum are looking into learning about local attractions, cultural events, and restaurants in your new area.

Pack Strategically

When packing for a travel assignment, it’s important to consider a few factors. You’ll want to bring enough clothes to last for the duration of your assignment, but not so much that you’re weighed down. Be weary of the weather in that area for that season as well – you don’t want to forget a coat if you’re traveling to Omaha in October! Some necessities to pack are scrubs, comfortable shoes and socks, masks, a portable charger, and any medical equipment you may need for the assignment.

Pro Tip: Ensure your lodging has some form of laundry available to you!

Keep an Open Mind

Traveling in healthcare can expose you to different facility settings, patient populations, and cultures. Being willing to learn new things, as well as maintaining hopeful expectations while being flexible to the possibilities will set you up for success in any new environment.

Build Relationships

One of the perks about travel assignments is the new colleagues and patients that make the job so fulfilling. Fostering new relationships is key to getting the full experience out of your first contract on the road, making it all that much more enjoyable and rewarding. Take the time to introduce yourself, ask questions, and get to know the people around you.

Stay organized

As a traveler, while your Republic Recruiter and team are always by your side every step of the way, there is a large amount of independence required when you’re on the road. Be sure to have everything you need in one safe place, and keep track of your weekly hours, timesheet, schedule, and general paperwork.

Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Traveling can be demanding, but it’s important to prioritize your mental, physical, and emotional health. Take time to get in touch with you’re your loved ones back home and catch up regularly. Make sure you take a walk outside to explore your new surroundings. Look into local events or short-term clubs for hobbies you enjoy so you can take advantage of the novel attractions of the area.

Stay in Touch

Finally, stay in touch with your Republic Recruiter and fellow traveling colleagues. We are always here to be your advocate and provide valuable support and advice from your very first assignment and onward as market experts looking out for the development of your career.

If you think you’re ready to take the next step in your healthcare career and pursue traveling, our team of experienced industry professionals are ready to guide you through each step to find your perfect first assignment! There are so many benefits to traveling, let us help set you up for success today!