Halfway Through 2024 - Where is Travel Nursing Now?
We are certainly relieved that the COVID-19 Pandemic has subsided, although we are keeping an eye on intermittent spikes. But, as everyone knows, the demand --and pay-- for travelers, has also dropped dramatically since the peak of the Pandemic. The silver lining is that traveler pay is, on average, above pre-pandemic levels.
At 50 States Staffing, we can report that travel nurses are still, and will continue to be, in demand. We have thousands of RN position postings throughout the USA. That said, the travel nursing environment has changed. There is no definitive answer as to why; it is likely a combination of factors. First, hospital employers are readjusting budgets and staffing strategies as they re-calibrate after the Pandemic upheaval. How and why a healthcare employer readjusts depends in part upon the type of facility. Are they part of a nationwide or multi-state healthcare organization? Are they for-profit or non-profit? Are they governmentally-run by state or municipal bodies?
Healthcare employers may be focusing on permanent staff at the moment, in part to stabilize budgets -- while also acknowledging that travelers and staff nurses must be paid appropriately for their work. Some forums show travelers theorizing that there was an abundance of travelers who left their permanent positions for travel during the pandemic and, as the industry returned to "normal," many of those travelers returned to staff positions. This shift could have affected supply and demand for a time, but even as hospitals have rebuilt permanent staff, the nursing shortage has not disappeared.
Travelers are still needed. With the fluctuating hiring environment, as well as changes in technology, positions are posting and getting filled more quickly than ever.
How can you get your best travel job right now?
- See something you're interested in? Jump on it - click "apply"; contact your Recruiter; share your enthusiasm right away!
- Don't get too fixated on a particular type of assignment. Think out-of-the-box - can you float, would you consider a new location if the pay or experience gained was worth it?
- there are some areas of the country that are currently doing more hiring than others. See our states with most openings today.
- Keep up-to-date with paperwork, such as certifications, licenses, medical testing, and continuing education. Work closely with your Recruiter on documentation, and trust that your agency's credentialing specialist has your best interests in mind and wants to see you succeed
- Get a multi-state RN license if you can. The NLC is practically nationwide at this point, definitely worth it
- When you're completing your past experience and skills lists, keep it real, but don't be overly modest about your capabilities and experience
- Keep your eye on the prize - great reviews from previous managers go a long way in making you stand out
- Work with an experienced recruiter and stay in touch with them before, during, and after and assignment. you won't know the difference an skilled recruiter can make IRL until you have one.
When you know your "must-haves" and your "nice-to-haves", it makes it that much easier to land the position you want. Your recruiter can guide you to the best-paying positions that meet your requirements. Not to mention give you the inside story on the facility, the location and other travelers' experience there.
States with the Most Travel RN Jobs Right Now
Movie stars, surfing beaches, marine-life centers, national landmarks, and more draw medical professionals to pursue travel positions in California. California is also home to some of the best sports teams and amusement parks in the nation. Attractions including Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Getty Center await California travel nurses.
Relive Rock ‘n’ Roll’s early days at Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, and Johnny Cash started their journeys to stardom. Tennessee travel RNs love to visit the Graceland Museum as part of their tour of the state when they first arrive. HIstory buffs will enjoy the Tennessee Civil Rights Movement historic sites, while adventurers have the Great Smoky Mountains to explore.
As a travel nurse in Washington, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful vistas and friendly people. This state offers plenty of chances to enjoy waterfront destinations like the popular Pike Place Market, home to fresh produce, seafood, and coffee. The state also has beauty inland in areas like Redwood National Park, a forest that feels like it’s straight from a fairytale.
If you love sports, consider pursuing a travel assignment in Massachusetts so you can see the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots, and Bruins play at their home fields. For fun and entertainment, visit Boston: shop at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, eat on a patio on Newbury Street, or learn about the country’s history by walking the Freedom Trail.
Even though much of Oklahoma is conservation land and state park territory, a fact appreciated by outdoor adventurers, there are plenty of opportunities for big-city living in the state. The urban centers of Oklahoma City and Tulsa are home to museums, boutiques, fresh produce markets, botanical gardens, and performing arts centers. Apply today!
Travel nursing jobs in Illinois put RNs in the middle of a cutting-edge healthcare industry, which thrives in Illinois cities. If you decide to travel within Illinois, your services will be in demand and you’ll experience a life filled with activities like shopping Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and viewing Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in Springfield.