Absolutely not. Your application is simply used to qualify you for travel so that we're ready to match you with an assignment if and when you decide you're ready to go. Once you become registered, there will always be an exciting travel assignment waiting for you.

When do I start preparing to take an assignment?

Normally, we recruit for assignments a few months prior to an applicable start date, so it's best to start as early as possible.  Even if you're only curious about available assignments, send in your resume and apply now so you won't miss out on an assignment that might be ideal for you.  Remember, there's no obligation.

How long are assignments?

Most Healthsource assignments are typically around 6 to 9 months; however, we may be able to customize the length of an assignment to meet your needs.

When and how will I be paid?

Health Source travelers may choose to have their paycheck directly deposited into their accounts or receive their paychecks.  In some instances, however, the assignment facility will pay you directly according to its normal payroll schedule.

How do I coordinate getting an assignment?

Once the company reviews your application and skills, you and your assigned manager will discuss what you can expect from your assignment. Then you will be presented with available assignments based on your position and shift preferences. You will also be given information of the work location, department, duration and working environment.

What happens after I coordinate getting an assignment confirmation?

A copy of the paperwork with an availability date, skills, and other details such as shift experience will be sent to the facility for review, along with a time for the facility to call for a telephone interview.  Prior to the interview, it's a good idea to prepare a list of any questions you may have about the unit in which you'll be working.  We want you to be comfortable with your assignment from the very beginning.

What if my needs change during the assignment?

Health Source will make every effort to meet your needs as they change.  We understand that work situations change, sometimes with assignments continuing longer than originally anticipated.  We also know that staff continuity is critical to maintaining the quality of care you provide.  We verify that each assignment is complete before reassigning our consultant/employee, first giving the client the option of extending the employee’s assignment. The clients will maintain staff continuity and avoid extra time and money training new temporary employees.

How will Healthsource prepare me for my assignment?

Once we have agreed on the assignment that's right for you, your manager will confirm your start date, shift, unit and other details. Shortly thereafter, you will receive a confirmation with information pertaining to your assignment. We will then prepare you for your arrival. All you need to do is pack your bags if its a travel assignment!

How do I get to my assignments?

It's best to drive or have your vehicle transported to your assignment, since you'll want to explore your new surroundings and go sight seeing on your days off.  If, however, you accept an assignment in a major city where parking is scarce and ample public transportation is readily available, you can probably do without a car.

What happens at the end of an assignment?

After you have completed your assignment, together we will discuss options to: Extend your assignment, travel to another exciting assignment, apply for a permanent position at the facility, or return home, perhaps to travel again at a later date.

Can I travel with a friend?

We encourage it!  Traveling with another healthcare professionals, a spouse, or any close friend will allow you to share the experiences of a lifetime.

Do I need a certification from CGFNS or NBCOT if I am a Canadian entering the U.S. in the "TN" class?

No, certifications are NOT required for health care workers entering the United States in a temporary or "nonimmigrant" visa status.  Since "TN" (standing for "Trade NAFTA") is a nonimmigrant status, no certification is required.  INS will continue to waive the requirements of Section 343 for all health care workers in temporary or nonimmigrant status.  This however may change with time as rules do with INS.

In what circumstances are certifications required?

Certifications are required only for persons seeking immigrant visas, or seeking to adjust status to permanent resident. An immigrant visa or permanent resident status is often referred as a "green card."  Persons seeking to qualify for "green card" status based on their health-care occupation require a certification.  This however may change with time as rules do with immigration.

Specialty Certification FAQ

What is Nursing Certification?

Normally, attaining nursing certification is a voluntary process through which nurses demonstrate their commitment to continuous learning and excellence in practice by successfully completing an examination that validates their competence, knowledge and skill as a nursing professional within a specific area of practice, as evaluated by a body of peers.

Who benefits from Nursing Certification?

Nurses, their employers, and the healthcare consumer (public) all benefit from professional certification:

Nurses’ benefits may include salary increases, advancement and/or bonuses. Certified nurses can earn differentials of up to 25% over non-certified peers.  Many nurses seek certification for personal fulfillment and commitment to excellence in practice.

Employers benefit from certification by the dramatic impact on the personal, professional and practice outcomes of certified nurses.  Nurses reported that they made fewer errors after becoming certified, improving patient outcomes. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that most patients feel more confident when they know their nurse is board certified, making certification an important point in marketing to consumers.

Finally, the public benefits, as certification, as a concrete benchmark of competency and safety, ultimately results in consumer protection. Nurses must continually update their knowledge and skills to maintain certification in their field.