If you are considering a career as a traveling healthcare professional, it’s essential to understand the typical lengths of travel assignments. While assignments can be shorter or longer, the average healthcare travel assignment is 13 weeks. This time allows healthcare professionals to adjust to a new environment, gain experience, and explore a new location. However, assignment lengths will vary based on the facility’s needs and the type of healthcare position. Hospitals and other medical facilities typically choose the length of an assignment, but as a traveling medical professional, you can choose which assignments you take.

Shorter Length Assignments

Shorter assignment lengths mean you get to travel more. With each contract lasting 4, 6, or 8 weeks on average, you can visit many new cities relatively quickly. This not only means you get to see more of the country, but it also gives you a chance to experience different cultures and meet new people.

It’s essential to keep in mind, however, that taking on shorter travel assignments also means you’ll be moving more frequently. Packing your belongings and finding new accommodations every few weeks can be a hassle. Completing paperwork for each assignment can be time-consuming, so staying on top of your paperwork is vital to avoid delays or complications.

Despite these challenges, many traveling medical professionals find taking on shorter travel assignments is worth it for the opportunity to explore new places and gain experience in different healthcare settings.

Longer Length Assignments

Longer-term assignments allow you to get more comfortable and will enable you to immerse yourself in the local community and experience the area’s culture. In addition, you are working with the same team for an extended amount of time, allowing you to develop stronger professional relationships and improve your skills.

Housing is easier to secure for longer travel assignments, and many medical travelers can find furnished housing or apartments. However, taking on a longer travel assignment can be difficult for medical travelers with family or pets. While there may be challenges to traveling with children or pets, planning and preparation, the experience can be an opportunity for growth, adventure, and making lasting memories.

If you are considering a longer-term travel assignment, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully. With the proper preparation and mindset, a longer-term travel assignment can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Extending a Contract

On average, extending your travel assignment contract is simple. If you’re considering extending your contract, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

• Communication with your recruiter is key. Let them know if you want to extend your travel assignment as soon as possible. Your recruiter can work with the facility to see if an extension is possible and negotiate the terms on your behalf.
• If you enjoy your current location, consider taking a shorter assignment in another city and returning in the future.
• Keep in mind that extending your travel assignment may affect your tax status. According to the IRS, temporary jobs must last less than a year. If you stay in one area too long, it may be considered a permanent assignment, and you could miss out on tax-free stipends.

If you are a traveling medical professional, it’s critical to consider your options when choosing your travel assignment. It may be challenging to find an assignment length that aligns with your lifestyle, so it is important to have a thorough discussion with your recruiter to find your ideal contract.

At RTG Medical, our recruiters are ready to help you find the perfect position in the perfect place. We offer a variety of locations, compensation, benefits, and 24-hour service. Contact us today to start your next adventure.