As a travel therapist, choosing the right travel agency is essential to ensuring that your assignments align with your professional and personal goals. The agency you partner with can have a significant impact on your experience, compensation, and overall satisfaction as a travel clinician. Here’s a guide to help you select the best travel agency for your needs.
1. Consider Agency Reputation and Reviews
A reputable agency is key to a smooth and successful travel therapy career. Before committing to an agency, research its reputation through online reviews, testimonials from other therapists, and independent forums. Websites like Glassdoor, Indeed, and Travel Nurse Community offer honest reviews from therapists who have worked with specific agencies.
- Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to colleagues, peers, or social media groups who are experienced travel therapists. They can provide recommendations or share their own experiences with different agencies.
2. Evaluate Agency Experience and Specialization
When selecting a travel agency, make sure they specialize in travel therapy and have experience working with healthcare professionals in your field (e.g., physical therapists, occupational therapists, or speech-language pathologists). Specialized agencies understand the unique challenges and requirements of travel clinicians and will be better equipped to assist you.
- Agency Size and Reach: Larger agencies may have a more extensive network of job opportunities, but smaller agencies may offer more personalized service. Consider whether you prefer a more tailored experience or access to a broad selection of assignments.
3. Assess Benefits and Compensation Packages
One of the most important factors when choosing a travel agency is understanding their compensation package. Travel agencies typically offer two types of pay: hourly pay and travel stipends. You’ll want to know how much of your pay will come from your base salary and how much will be covered in stipends for housing, meals, and transportation.
- Housing Stipends: Ensure the agency offers generous housing stipends if you’re looking to manage your own accommodations. Some agencies provide fully furnished housing, while others will offer a stipend to help cover housing costs.
- Tax-Free Benefits: The best agencies will offer tax-free benefits such as housing and meal stipends, which can significantly boost your take-home pay. Verify that the agency understands the IRS rules for travel tax exemptions.
- Health Insurance and Retirement Benefits: Check if the agency provides comprehensive health benefits, including dental, vision, and 401(k) retirement plans. Some agencies even offer continuing education stipends or licensing reimbursements.
4. Investigate Assignment Locations and Flexibility
When selecting a travel agency, think about the locations they offer for assignments. Do they have assignments in the regions you’re interested in? Are they able to accommodate your preferences, such as urban or rural settings, specific states, or particular settings (hospital, outpatient, etc.)?
- Geographic Flexibility: Some agencies specialize in specific areas (e.g., coastal regions, specific states, or cities). If you have particular locations in mind, be sure the agency can accommodate those preferences.
- Assignment Duration and Flexibility: Ensure the agency offers the type of assignments you prefer, whether that’s short-term contracts or longer commitments. Flexibility in assignment lengths is key if you want to experience different environments.
5. Communication and Support
Effective communication and strong support from your recruiter are essential for a positive travel therapist experience. You’ll want to work with a recruiter who listens to your needs, keeps you informed about potential assignments, and provides prompt answers to your questions.
- Dedicated Recruiter: A good recruiter should be available to answer your questions and advocate for you during the hiring process. You should feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process.
- On-Assignment Support: Ensure that the agency provides support while you’re on assignment. This may include a 24/7 support hotline, assistance with housing or travel issues, and help resolving workplace conflicts if they arise.
6. Review the Contract and Terms
Before signing a contract, thoroughly review the details of the offer. Make sure you understand the terms of employment, the duration of the contract, the specifics of compensation, and the agency’s policies regarding cancelation or extension.
- Transparency: Look for transparency in the contract regarding housing arrangements, reimbursement processes, and any penalties for contract violations or early terminations. Ensure that all aspects of your compensation are clearly outlined.
- Non-Compete and Exclusivity: Be wary of agencies that require you to sign non-compete clauses or lock you into exclusive contracts unless you’re comfortable with those terms.
7. Licensing and Credentials Support
A reliable travel agency should help you navigate licensing requirements in different states. Make sure they provide support with obtaining or transferring any necessary licenses and help cover costs associated with licensing or certifications.
- License Reimbursement: Some agencies offer to cover the costs of obtaining new licenses or renewing existing ones. This benefit can help save you money and ensure you meet state-specific requirements.
8. Look for Agencies with Positive Relationships with Employers
Lastly, consider agencies that have established positive relationships with healthcare facilities. A travel agency with strong partnerships with reputable employers is more likely to offer reliable, quality assignments that align with your professional goals.
- Employer Network: Agencies with established networks often have a more consistent pipeline of assignments, reducing the time spent waiting between contracts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right travel agency is a personal decision that depends on your preferences, career goals, and work style. Take the time to research your options, ask questions, and connect with other travel clinicians to find an agency that best fits your needs.
By selecting the right agency, you can enjoy a rewarding career as a travel therapist, with access to great assignments, excellent compensation, and strong support throughout your journey.
