5 Tips for Transitioning Into an Travel Allied Health Career
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How to Start a Travel Allied Health Career
You have dedicated hours to your profession as an allied health clinician, pursuing a career that prioritizes improving the lives of your patients. Allied health specialties, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, ultrasound technology, and surgical technology, are all essential components of our healthcare system.
Now, imagine taking that impact nationwide. Travel assignments can help elevate your skills and create meaningful network connections, all while exploring your dream destinations. The benefits of a travel healthcare career are immense on a personal and professional scale.
No matter your modality, as an allied health professional, taking the leap into a travel role requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. At FlexCare, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. Here’s what you need to know as you embark on this new adventure:
1. Utilize Your Transferrable Skills
Before committing to travel allied health, assess your current skills and experience. These roles require clinical expertise, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills. If you've worked at facilities like outpatient clinics or rehabilitation centers, you already have experience adapting to new processes – remember, flexibility will be your biggest asset as an allied traveler!
2. Research and Obtain Necessary Certifications & Licenses
Each state has its own licensing requirements, so it’s important to do your research before applying for travel positions. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
At FlexCare, your Single Point Recruiter is your go-to resource for everything, including licensing questions. We ensure you have the tools you need to hit the ground running.
3. Leverage Your Personal and Professional Network
Networking is invaluable when transitioning into a travel career, so don’t be afraid to connect with those who have been there. Connecting with colleagues who have experience in travel allied health or nursing roles can help provide insight into the industry, what to look for, and how to succeed on assignment. Online forums and professional associations can also provide valuable insights.
4. Prepare For a Lifestyle Shift
Traveling for work comes with exciting perks like exploring new locations and gaining diverse clinical experiences. But, it also requires extreme flexibility and adaptability to new environments. The best way to prepare yourself is to be proactive in researching your assignments and do your due diligence so you understand the expectations of both your staffing agency and your facility.
5. Partner With a Trusted Agency, Like FlexCare
At FlexCare, we believe travel healthcare should be simple, rewarding, and tailored to you. Since 2006, we’ve helped allied health professionals find career-advancing opportunities while making the process as smooth as possible.
With just one recruiter and one consistent point of contact, we make your job search effortless - so you can focus on what matters most: providing top-of-the-line patient care and loving what you do.