Heading into a travel therapy interview? Don’t just show up with your resume—show up with the right questions. Travel contracts move fast, and asking thoughtful, targeted questions can help you avoid red flags, align with the clinic’s expectations, and hit the ground running.
Here are 7 key questions every travel therapist should ask before accepting an outpatient assignment:
1. What does the clinic space look like? What kind of equipment do you have for treatment?
Understanding the clinic’s layout and available equipment helps you visualize your day-to-day and plan your treatments effectively. Whether you’re hands-on or exercise-focused, you’ll want to know if the tools match your style.
2. What does the schedule look like?
Ask about patient volume, appointment spacing, and how the day is structured. Are you seeing 10 patients or 16? Is there time blocked for documentation? These details matter when it comes to your workflow and sanity.3. Why do you need a traveler?
This question gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the clinic’s current situation. Are they short-staffed, expanding, or just need coverage for a leave? The answer can reveal if you’re stepping into a supportive team—or putting out fires.4. Am I building my own caseload or taking someone else’s over?
Some clinics will have a full caseload ready for you; others may expect you to build it up. Knowing this upfront helps you manage your expectations and prepare for the pace of your first few weeks.5. Is there formal EMR training or is it more of a ‘learn as you go’ situation?
EMRs vary widely, and not every clinic offers proper training. Ask this question to avoid the stress of trying to learn a new system while juggling a full caseload.6. What is the patient demographic?
From post-op ortho to neuro to weekend warriors, patient populations can vary. Knowing the demographics helps you assess if the contract aligns with your skill set and comfort level.7. Are treatments 1:1, or is there a handoff to a PTA or tech?
This will tell you how patient care is structured and how much direct time you’ll have with each person. It’s especially helpful to know if you value 1:1 time or want to make sure your clinical decision-making isn’t rushed.✨ Bonus Pro Tip:
End your interview with this goldmine question:
“Is there anything else I should know that would help me succeed in this role?”
It opens the door for honesty and extra details they may not have volunteered—but that could make a big difference for you.
Let me know if you’d like this turned into a blog post, social caption, or interview prep checklist!
