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Being a physical therapist is an incredibly rewarding career, but what if you could combine your passion for helping others with your love for travel? That’s where traveling physical therapist jobs come in. These unique opportunities allow you to work in different locations across the country while still doing what you love. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of traveling physical therapist jobs and what you need to know to get started.
What is a Traveling Physical Therapist?
A traveling physical therapist is a licensed physical therapist who works on a temporary basis in different locations. Instead of working in a single clinic, hospital, or skilled nursing facility, traveling PTs move from one assignment to another, typically working for a few weeks or months at a time. These assignments can take them all over the country, and some even travel internationally.
How Do Traveling Physical Therapist Jobs Work?
As a traveling physical therapist, you’ll typically work for a staffing agency that specializes in healthcare professionals. These agencies have contracts with healthcare facilities across the country that need temporary help, and they’ll match you with assignments based on your skills and experience. When you accept an assignment, the agency will typically cover your travel expenses, including airfare, lodging, and sometimes even a rental car.
Once you arrive at your new assignment, you’ll work with the healthcare facility just like any other physical therapist. You’ll evaluate patients, create treatment plans, and work with them on their rehabilitation goals. When your assignment is over, you’ll move on to your next location.
What Are the Benefits of Traveling Physical Therapist Jobs?
There are several benefits to working as a traveling physical therapist. For one, you’ll get to see different parts of the country and experience new cultures. You’ll also have the opportunity to work in different healthcare settings, which can help you develop a broader range of skills. Additionally, traveling PTs typically earn higher salaries than those in traditional positions, and many agencies offer benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.
What Are the Requirements for Traveling Physical Therapist Jobs?
To work as a traveling physical therapist, you’ll need to meet the same requirements as any other physical therapist. You’ll need a degree from an accredited physical therapy program and a license to practice in the state where you’ll be working. Additionally, most agencies require at least one year of experience working as a physical therapist. Some assignments may also require additional certifications or specialized training.
How Do I Get Started?
If you’re interested in working as a traveling physical therapist, the first step is to find a staffing agency that specializes in healthcare professionals. Research different agencies online and read reviews from other traveling PTs to find a reputable one. Once you’ve found an agency you like, you’ll typically need to complete an application and provide your resume, references, and licensing information. From there, the agency will work to match you with assignments that fit your skills and experience.
Conclusion
Traveling physical therapist jobs offer a unique opportunity to combine your love for physical therapy with your love for travel. If you’re a licensed physical therapist with at least one year of experience, consider exploring this exciting career path. With the help of a reputable staffing agency, you could be on your way to working in different locations across the country and seeing all that the United States has to offer.
| Benefits | Requirements | Getting Started |
|---|---|---|
| Higher salaries Opportunity to see different parts of the country Ability to work in different healthcare settings |
Degree from an accredited physical therapy program License to practice in the state where you’ll be working At least one year of experience as a physical therapist |
Find a reputable staffing agency Complete an application and provide your resume, references, and licensing information Wait for the agency to match you with assignments |
FAQs
What kind of healthcare facilities can I work in as a traveling physical therapist?
Traveling physical therapists can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies.
Do I have to pay for my own travel expenses?
No, most staffing agencies that specialize in healthcare professionals will cover your travel expenses, including airfare, lodging, and sometimes even a rental car.
How long do assignments typically last?
Assignments can vary in length, but most are between 13 and 26 weeks.
What kind of salary can I expect as a traveling physical therapist?
Salaries for traveling physical therapists are typically higher than those for traditional positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical therapists in 2020 was $91,010.
Can I bring my family with me on assignments?
It depends on the staffing agency and the healthcare facility. Some agencies and facilities allow traveling PTs to bring their families with them, but others do not. Be sure to ask about this when you’re considering an assignment.