Get Ready, Get Ready, Get Ready! for Your First Travel Assignment

Ready to quit your full-time position and start traveling full-time? You’re in great company; It’s estimated that around 10-20% of all physicians in the United States have worked as locums at some point in their careers.

But before you hit the road (or jump on that plane), there are a few things you need to know. 

If you’re 

• somewhat organized, 
• flexible and 
• willing to network and connect with others

You’ll be great as a traveler!  I’m an ER doc, and I’ve done travel assignments for several years. Let me help you get ready for your first travel contract.

Make friends and network:

The locums/travel game is all about who you know. Meet recruiters at conferences and meet other locums physicians and travel nurses at work and online. Not only will you find job opportunities, but you’ll also make friends who can support you on your journey.

Get organized:

Hoping on a flight (or jumping in a car) for work can be hectic. It’s important to keep track of your paperwork and important documents. PRO-TIP: Keep digital copies of your license, certifications, and other important papers with you on a hard drive or in a secure-cloud (Google Drive). 

Get your money right:

Many travel nurses and locums doctors work as independent contractors for their locums contracts. And keep a good system for keeping track of your money, like separating business and personal expenses. Talk to your accountant or a financial advisor on what’s best for you.

Be open to new things:

As a traveler, you’ll work in different places and settings. You’ll learn how others practice medicine and potentially add a couple of tricks up your sleeve. I learned a fast cure for nausea from a former PACU nurse (answer: smell a little bit of rubbing alcohol)  Don’t be afraid to try new things and work in places you never thought of before. You’ll grow as a clinician.

Self-care is the best care:

Traveling can be hard on your mind and body, so it’s important to take care of yourself. Exercise, eat healthy food, and say no to that extra shift if you need a break. 

Have fun!:

You’re not just working, you’re also traveling! Make the most of your time in each place by exploring the local culture and trying new things. Eat new foods, visit famous places, or just take a walk in the park. There’s always something fun to do on your days off.

Be flexible and ready for anything:

The travel life is exciting, but it can be unpredictable. 

via GIPHY

Here’s a few bonus tips to help you always be ready for the unexpected: 

• Expect the curveball. Be ready to adjust and have a backup plan. 
• Pack a carry-on bag with essentials like scrubs, stethoscope, toiletries, and important papers, just in case there are last-minute flight delays. 
• Keep in touch with your recruiter/hospital contact so you know what to expect in case something unexpected happens. 
• Be flexible with your schedule and willing to work different shifts.

If a locums assignment brings you to Memphis, Sherwood Properties provides furnished apartments and corporate rentals for other locums physicians, travel nurses, and other professionals. 

Check out our current availability (https://www.sherwoodproperties.co/listings/)