Choosing the right healthcare staffing agency is one of the most important decisions you can make as a healthcare traveler. The right agency will not only provide you with great job opportunities but also offer benefits that enhance your overall experience. With so many agencies to choose from, how do you determine which one is the best fit for your career goals? Here’s the ultimate checklist to help guide your decision.
Reputation and Trustworthiness
Before partnering with an agency, research its reputation within the industry. Look at online reviews, ask fellow travelers about their experiences, and check if the company has earned any industry recognition or awards. Great Recruiters is a great resource to use that collects reviews straight from travelers that have worked with the agency before. One of the most important things to look out for is honesty and integrity. A trustworthy agency should be transparent about job details and all the needed requirements for submitting.
Variety of Job Opportunities
A great staffing agency should offer a wide range of assignments in different locations and settings. Whether you’re looking for hospital contracts, outpatient clinics, home health roles, or something else, your agency should have access to the types of jobs that align with your skills and career aspirations.
Experienced and Knowledgeable Recruiters
The recruiter you work with plays a crucial role in your overall traveler experience. Look for recruiters who know the industry, are responsive, and genuinely care about your success. A great recruiter will advocate for you, provide honest communication, and ensure you are placed in assignments that suit your needs and preferences.
A good rule of thumb is to interview multiple recruiters, asking them questions like, why are you a recruiter, and how they break down pay packages. It makes a world of difference to work with a recruiter who has your best interests at heart, and the only thing you have to focus on is doing what you do best – your job.
Competitive Pay and Benefits
Another thing to look for when choosing a healthcare staffing agency to work for is compensation transparency. Pay packages should include base pay, stipends for housing and meals, and travel reimbursement when applicable. In addition to compensation, look for benefits such as:
- Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- 401(k) plans with company match
- Continuing education assistance
- Travel and license reimbursement
- Employee assistance programs
Strong Compliance and Credentialing Support
Navigating compliance requirements can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with different state licenses and facility-specific documentation. A quality staffing agency will have a dedicated compliance team to guide you through the process, making it as seamless as possible.
Supportive Core Values
Beyond job placements, an agency’s culture and values are essential. Does the company value integrity, honesty, and loyalty? Do they treat their travelers with respect and care? Something to search for is a staffing agency that genuinely cares for its professionals—one that treats you as a person, not just a placement.
Working for a company that aligns with your values can make a huge difference in your job satisfaction, motivation, and overall career fulfillment. When your beliefs and the company’s mission are in sync, you’re more likely to feel supported, engaged, and proud of the work you do.
Housing Resources
Finding housing as a travel healthcare professional can be challenging, especially in high-demand areas. A good agency will offer guidance, resources, or even housing stipends to help ease the burden of securing accommodations.
Travel with Ventura MedStaff
Choosing a healthcare staffing agency is about more than just finding a job—it’s about finding a partner that values you as a professional and supports your journey. By using this checklist, you can make an informed decision and align yourself with an agency that meets your needs and career goals.
If you’re looking for an agency that prioritizes transparency, integrity, and traveler success, Ventura MedStaff is here to help. Get connected with a recruiter today to learn more about how we can support your travel healthcare career!
