For traveling healthcare professionals like yourself, location flexibility isn’t just a perk — it’s a golden ticket to endless possibilities. From bustling cities to quiet towns and beyond, the rewards of being open to new locations go far beyond the paycheck. Here’s how being flexible with where you work can open doors to incredible experiences, both professionally and personally.
- What does location flexibility mean?
- 6 perks of location flexibility for traveling healthcare professionals
- Hidden gem locations for healthcare travelers
- ✨BONUS ✨ Frequently asked questions
The Rewards of Location Flexibility for Healthcare Travelers
What does location flexibility mean?
Location flexibility for healthcare travelers means having the freedom to choose where your next assignment will take you. Offering flexible work arrangements, healthcare travel allows you to mix up your work environment, adapt to new challenges, and embrace diverse experiences.
“I have several travelers that I work with who have been able to do some things that they probably wouldn’t have been able to do without wandering off the beaten path, taking a chance, and trusting the process,” said Fusion Medical Staffing Long-Term Care Recruiter Tim Minturn.
For traveling healthcare professionals, location flexibility is a chance to blend professional growth with personal adventure, making every move an exciting new chapter in your journey.
6 perks of location flexibility for traveling healthcare professionals
Higher pay opportunities
Spoiler: location flexibility can be a game-changer when it comes to earning potential. Being open to assignments in less popular or more remote areas often means higher pay rates and the potential for added bonuses.
While some healthcare travelers may hesitate at the thought of remote work arrangements, your willingness to go where the demand is high can lead to a nice boost in your paycheck.
Related: Rural Healthcare Travel Pay Breakdown
“A lot of times, the facilities that are willing to pay the most are generally in places that aren’t necessarily at the top of anybody’s bucket list,” said Tim.
By embracing location flexibility, you’re not just expanding your horizons — you’re also opening the door to higher earnings that can add up over time.
Gaining broader experience
If you’re interested in a front-row seat to a diverse range of experience, location flexibility is for you. Being open to assignments in different locations allows you to work in various healthcare settings and build a versatile skill set as you treat different patient populations.
With each new location comes unique challenges and learning opportunities that broaden your professional expertise and make you a more adaptable healthcare professional. Healthcare travel isn’t about adding locations to your resume, but rather growing your capabilities and gaining a richer, more varied experience that enhances both your career and confidence.
Unique patient population
In addition to sharpening your abilities and broadening your experience, location flexibility as a healthcare traveler opens the door to treating a unique mix of patient populations, each with its own distinct healthcare needs.
No matter where your travel assignments take you, location flexibility guarantees you’ll treat a wide range of conditions and gain fresh perspectives. This variety not only keeps your work interesting, increasing your employee engagement, but also allows you to learn new skills as you adapt to different patient demographics and medical challenges.
Cultural immersion
One of the great things about location flexibility is that you can really dive into the local culture — from savoring regional cuisines, learning new traditions, and connecting with people of different backgrounds.
Each place you go as a healthcare traveler gives you the chance to enrich your life with experiences that go beyond hospital walls. As you adapt to each new place, you’ll find yourself growing not only as a healthcare professional, but as a person.
Less professional competition
Turns out, location flexibility could be your secret weapon when it comes to avoiding heavy competition. While many healthcare professionals may flock to the same popular destinations, being open to assignments in less common or out-of-the-way locations can give you an edge. Many times, these spots have a higher demand for skilled professionals, meaning you’ll face less competition for the best shifts, pay rates, or even choice assignments.
Enhanced work-life balance
The thing about location flexibility is that it’s not just beneficial for your professional career and job satisfaction, it can also serve you well in your personal life by boosting your work-life balance. When you’re open to different locations, you have the chance to choose assignments that align with your needs and lifestyle goals.
Related: 5 Ways to Maintain Work-Life Balance as a Healthcare Traveler
Location flexibility allows you to find that sweet spot where your work and personal life complement and enhance each other. Location flexibility isn’t just about finding a job, it’s about creating a lifestyle that keeps you energized and fulfilled, both on and off the clock.
Hidden gem locations for healthcare travelers
Madison, WI
Looking for the ideal blend of a vibrant city life and a welcoming, small-town vibe? Search for healthcare traveler jobs near Madison, Wisconsin!
“I work with a traveling rad tech from Florida who always insisted he wanted warm, Southern weather,” said Fusion Medical Staffing Radiology Recruiter Becki Mousseau. “One day, we had a position open in Madison during the winter and he said there was no way he was going there. The thing that got him was that the pay was really, really good. So, he tried it out, and loved it! He said he worked at the best hospital ever in Madison and to this day, he’ll call me just to say thank you because if it wasn’t for me encouraging him, he never would’ve gone to Madison. Now he’s more open to other locations and new experiences!”
Known for its high quality of life, Madison features beautiful lakes, a strong sense of community, and a vibrant cultural scene. Plus, Madison’s healthcare system is well-respected, so you can gain valuable experience while working in a supportive environment.
Cedar Rapids, IA
Located right on the banks of the Cedar River, Cedar Rapids, Iowa offers opportunities that can be hard to resist. With a friendly community and welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to make yourself at home in Cedar Rapids.
“My fellow travel nursing husband and I share a love for nature, adventure, exploring, and cycling,” said Julie Henninger, Fusion Medical Staffing traveling long-term care registered nurse (RN). “One of our most recent travel assignments in Cedar Rapids surprised us in a good way! You can find some of the best cycling trails and the greatest restaurants in Cedar Rapids.”
As a bonus, Cedar Rapids has a lower cost of living, which means that you can save more of your hard-earned cash. Plus, the slower pace of this city is perfect for a great work-life balance.
Sturgis, SD
“You don’t have to ride bikes to know about Sturgis,” said Tim. “Take what you think you know about South Dakota and toss it out the window.”
It might not be the first place that comes to mind for a healthcare travel assignment, but Sturgis has a lot to offer for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. Most known for the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this town has a close-knit community that welcomes newcomers with open arms.
Search for healthcare travel jobs in Sturgis and experience the beauty of the Black Hills right in your backyard. Not only are there plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring, but the healthcare facilities in Sturgis will also give you the chance to work in a more intimate setting where you can really get to know your patients and see the positive difference you make.
Utqiagvik, AK
An unbelievable experience is waiting for you in Utqiagvik, Alaska. Formerly known as Barrow, this city offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in a more remote environment.
“When I was a lab recruiter, placing travelers in what used to be known as Barrow, Alaska was my jam,” Becki shared. “I’ve landed at least six travelers in jobs in Barrow, and every one of them loved it! When will you get the opportunity again to have housing paid for you, get a good paycheck, and see a side of the world that you maybe never would’ve?”
Professionally, the Utqiagvik community is small, and the healthcare resources are limited, so your skills and adaptability are in great demand.
As the northernmost city in the U.S., the extreme climate and seasonal shifts, like the polar night and the midnight sun, make this an extraordinary destination. While you’re here, soak up the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape, from the vast tundra to the incredible wildlife, Utqiagvik is an incredible destination that promises memories and stories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose assignments that align with my seasonal preferences, like warmer climates in winter?
The short answer is yes!
Although it can be great to tailor your assignments to fit your ideal season, being flexible with your location year-round is the best and easiest way to ensure continuous placements. Location flexibility gives you the power to explore various opportunities across regions and experience a wider range of environments, cultures, and healthcare settings.
When should I start thinking about my next travel assignment?
You should start thinking about your next assignment about six weeks into your current placement. That way, you have plenty of time to assess your options, communicate with your recruiter, and ensure you land an assignment where you’ll be successful.
When thinking about where you’ll go next, consider location flexibility, and take advantage of smoother transitions, and a stronger work-life balance.
What type of healthcare facilities hire healthcare travelers?
Healthcare travelers like you are needed across a wide range of facilities like urban hospitals and smaller, community-based healthcare centers. Among these, critical access hospitals that are often located in rural or underserved areas especially need your expertise.
Related: Why Facilities Hire Travel Nurses and Allied Health Travelers
Leaning into location flexibility opens you up to work in these diverse settings and learn new tricks of your trade. Whether you’re stepping into a high-tech teaching hospital or doing remote work in a critical access facility, your adaptability makes a difference where it’s needed most.
In the world of healthcare travel, location flexibility is a gateway to countless rewards. Tap into higher pay opportunities, gain broader and more diverse experience, and treat unique patient populations that challenge and grow your skills.
Embracing location flexibility not only makes you a more well-rounded healthcare professional but also turns your career into a journey filled with growth, exploration, and fulfilling experiences.
