The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel RN Agency
Becoming a travel RN (Registered Nurse) is an exciting and rewarding career choice. Not only does it offer the chance to explore new places and meet new people, but it also provides the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in healthcare settings across the country. One of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a travel nurse is choosing the right travel RN agency. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Is a Travel RN Agency?
A travel RN agency is a company that specializes in placing registered nurses in temporary nursing assignments. These agencies work with healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes to fill staffing gaps. As a travel nurse, you’ll work on short-term contracts that can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. These agencies handle many of the logistics, such as securing housing, organizing travel arrangements, and offering benefits. 
Travel RN agencies make it possible for nurses to enjoy flexible schedules, explore new locations, and gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings. The agency also provides support throughout the assignment, ensuring your needs are met and helping you navigate your nursing career.
Why You Should Work With a Travel RN Agency
Working with a travel RN agency has several advantages. These agencies serve as your bridge to exciting career opportunities, offering a variety of benefits:
1. Flexibility
Travel nursing is the ultimate career for those seeking flexibility. As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose when and where you want to work. Travel RN agencies offer numerous job opportunities across the country, allowing you to pick assignments based on your preferences, including location, pay, and specialty.
2. Competitive Pay
One of the biggest reasons nurses choose to work as travelers is the higher pay rates. Travel RN agencies often offer more competitive compensation packages compared to traditional staff nursing positions. You can also receive benefits such as housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and health insurance.
3. Professional Growth
Travel nursing provides the opportunity to gain diverse experience in a variety of healthcare settings. Working in different hospitals and clinics allows you to learn new skills, work with different patient populations, and enhance your career. This broadens your expertise and makes you a highly sought-after nurse in the job market.
4. Housing and Travel Support
Many travel RN agencies offer housing assistance or stipends to help with accommodation costs. They also handle the travel logistics, such as booking flights or arranging transportation, ensuring a smooth transition to your assignment.
5. Networking Opportunities
By working in different locations, you’ll meet other healthcare professionals and build a vast network. This is a great way to open doors for future opportunities and expand your professional connections.
How to Choose the Best Travel RN Agency
With so many agencies to choose from, selecting the right one can be a challenge. To help narrow down your options, here are some important factors to consider when choosing a travel RN agency:
1. Reputation and Reviews
Before partnering with an agency, research its reputation in the industry. Read reviews from current and former nurses who have worked with the agency. Websites like Glassdoor or Indeed can provide insights into the agency’s culture, communication, and reliability.
2. Benefits and Pay Package
When comparing agencies, look beyond just the hourly rate. Consider the entire pay package, including housing stipends, travel reimbursement, insurance, and retirement benefits. A good agency should offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports your personal and professional needs.
3. Job Opportunities and Locations
Different agencies may have varying specialties and job opportunities. Some agencies may focus on specific healthcare fields, such as pediatrics or oncology, while others may have a broader range of positions. Look for an agency that offers assignments in the locations and specialties you’re interested in.
4. Support and Communication
It’s crucial to work with an agency that provides strong support and clear communication throughout your assignment. Make sure the agency is responsive and accessible whenever you have questions or concerns. Having a dedicated recruiter who understands your goals and needs can make your experience much smoother.
5. Licensing and Compliance
Ensure the agency complies with the required licensing and legal regulations in the states where you plan to work. Some agencies may assist with obtaining the necessary state licensure and certifications, while others may not. Check whether the agency offers assistance with state-specific nursing licenses and CEUs (Continuing Education Units).
Top Travel RN Agencies to Consider
There are several reputable agencies that cater to travel nurses. Here are a few of the top travel RN agencies you should consider:
1. TNAA (Travel Nurse Across America)
TNAA is one of the leading travel nursing agencies in the U.S. Known for its excellent pay packages and strong support system, TNAA is a great choice for nurses looking to take their careers to the next level. The agency has a reputation for placing nurses in high-demand facilities across the country.
- Pros: Excellent pay rates, supportive recruiters, and diverse job opportunities.
- Cons: Limited availability in certain locations.
2. Avant Healthcare Professionals
Avant Healthcare Professionals specializes in placing nurses in facilities that require highly skilled and experienced professionals. This agency is known for its commitment to helping nurses find rewarding assignments while providing a supportive and personalized experience.
- Pros: Competitive pay, excellent support, and a diverse range of assignments.
- Cons: May not have as many opportunities in certain geographic regions.
3. Soliant Health
Soliant Health is another reputable travel nursing agency with a wide range of job opportunities in both clinical and non-clinical settings. They offer high pay, housing stipends, and other incentives to ensure your comfort during your assignment.
- Pros: Wide range of healthcare positions, strong benefits package.
- Cons: Limited personal recruiter availability in some areas.
4. Medical Solutions
Medical Solutions is known for offering high-paying assignments, a comprehensive benefits package, and an easy-to-use app that allows you to manage your assignments, pay, and communications. The agency is highly rated for its transparency and strong nurse support system.
- Pros: High pay rates, great communication, and ample job opportunities.
- Cons: Less personalized approach compared to some smaller agencies.
What to Expect from a Travel Nurse Agency
1. Assignments and Flexibility
Expect your travel RN agency to provide a variety of assignments that suit your skills and preferences. Most agencies offer flexible scheduling, meaning you can take a break between assignments or choose to work during specific seasons.
2. Ongoing Support
You’ll have ongoing support throughout your assignments, from housing and travel arrangements to 24/7 assistance in case of emergencies. Your recruiter will be your go-to person for any questions or concerns.
3. Professional Development
Many travel RN agencies offer resources for professional growth, such as CEUs, access to nursing conferences, and mentorship programs. Make sure the agency you choose supports your career advancement.
FAQs About Travel RN Agencies
1. How long are travel nurse contracts?
Travel nurse contracts typically last between 8 to 13 weeks, but some can be shorter or longer depending on the assignment.
2. Do I need to have specific certifications to work as a travel nurse?
Yes, depending on the state and specialty, certain certifications such as BLS (Basic Life Support) and ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) may be required. Your agency can assist with the process.
3. Can I choose where I work as a travel nurse?
Yes, one of the biggest benefits of being a travel nurse is the ability to choose your assignments based on location, specialty, and pay rate.
4. Do travel nurse agencies provide housing?
Most travel RN agencies provide housing options, including housing stipends or fully furnished accommodations. This varies depending on the agency and the assignment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right travel RN agency is key to having a successful and fulfilling career as a travel nurse. By considering factors like pay, benefits, reputation, and support, you can find an agency that matches your needs and preferences. The best travel RN agency will help you advance your career while offering you the flexibility to travel and explore new opportunities in healthcare.
Ready to take the next step in your travel nursing career? Start researching agencies today and take the first step towards your next adventure!