How to Choose the Right Travel Nursing Agency

Choose an experienced travel nursing agency that you trust. Great benefits, exceptional service and 24/7 support are a must.

As a traveler, you should feel confident that your agency is able to support you every step of the way, whether it's finding a position, setting up your housing, or even handling any unexpected hiccups along the journey. Ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations, check the reputable online review sites, and - once you've narrowed down the field - begin your inquiries!

You need to have full confidence in your Recruiter. So important! Top-notch Recruiters have a comprehensive knowledge of the industry so that they can guide you to where you will be most successful. They should be transparent and straightforward so that you can listen to their guidance without worrying about ulterior motives. They should have excellent problem-solving abilities, so that when 'life happens' during your assignment, you have confidence that they will generate solutions. You should feel that you are more than a statistic to your recruiter, and that you have a real advocate for you and for your success.

Is your Recruiter knowledgeable about the industry? Are you connecting on a personal and professional level?

The best travel nursing companies have a corporate staff of specialists prepared to aid you in your career. Your should be able to count on assistance with housing, documentation, and finding the proper way to get the clinical information you need.

Ask your agency if they have seasoned specialists on staff.

Your Recruiter should answer your questions promptly and thoroughly. Whether by phone, email or text, you'll feel better knowing they're on call. If an after-hours emergency arises, your agency should have a friendly 24-hour representative who knows the details of your personal situation and can solve any issue that arises.

Ask about your agency's customer service policies.

is a good indication of an established professional organization. Travel nursing agencies that have earned the Joint Commission's Gold Seal have a proven track record, and don't see their role as ending once you report for work at your new location.

At the end of the day, you want your agency to find you a job. They're going to be in a much better position to do so if they have access to positions in a wide variety of locations, healthcare settings and specialties.

Ask your agency if they have earned the Joint Commission Certification and how long they have been in business. Also, make sure to ask about what kind of access they have to healthcare job postings. Will they be able to offer you an attractive range of employment options?

Living in different locations is one of the most exciting aspects of travel nursing. However, it's also true that transitions can be challenging, especially if you have to research the rental market in your destination city. The top travel nursing agencies will provide you with free, fully furnished housing. Alternatively, if you're interested in a location where you have other housing options, your agency should contribute a generous monthly housing stipend.

Ask how their housing process works and about the stipend, if you are interested in that option.

The right agency is fully aware that nurses are parents and partners as well as professionals. The ability to bring family members along on a travel nursing assignment on a can make the difference in whether a travel nursing job is even possible for you.

Ask your agency about their experience with arranging for travel with family, friends, and pets!

You can't afford to run the risk of letting your insurance lapse between assignments. A good travel nursing agency will provide you with comprehensive health, life, dental and vision insurance choices with day 1 options. You should be able to choose between signing on with the agency's insurance – or continuing your own health insurance plan - thereby increasing your travel nursing take-home pay.

Ask about the benefits that are most important to you ... whether it's insurance, bonuses, travel and license reimbursements, or payroll schedules.