Debunking 3 Travel Physical Therapy Myths
The world of travel physical therapy can be a thrilling and rewarding career path for therapists. However, numerous misconceptions and myths surround this area of practice, deterring some physical therapists from pursuing their travel dreams and earning a higher travel physical therapist salary.
In this article, I'll delve into three common travel therapy myths that I’ve encountered many times over the years as a traveling physical therapist.
Myth #1: Traveling as a New Graduate PT is Not a Good Idea
One prevalent myth is that traveling as a new graduate is not a good idea. Many believe that new graduates need to gain experience in a permanent position before venturing into travel therapy. However, this couldn't be further from the truth for me and many of the therapists that I’ve mentored. I started traveling in 2015 as a new grad PT, and it was one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made.
This is not only due to the higher travel PT salary, but also traveling as a new graduate can be a fantastic way to gain valuable experience, build confidence, and develop essential skills in the field. New grads who work with a travel therapy company like AMN Healthcare will also receive ongoing support and mentorship to ensure they have the resources they need to succeed.
In fact, many new graduates find that travel therapy provides a unique opportunity to explore different clinical settings, work with diverse patient populations, and gain exposure to various treatment approaches. This can be incredibly beneficial for new graduates who are still finding their footing in the profession.
Myth #2: All Travel Therapy Job Assignments are Bad
Another myth surrounding travel therapy is that all travel therapy contracts are bad. This was certainly something I heard a lot when I first started looking for travel physical therapy jobs. Some believe that travel therapy companies will send therapists to any assignment, regardless of the working conditions, patient load, or overall quality of the assignment.
However, reputable travel therapy companies like AMN Healthcare prioritize their therapists' needs and well-being. They work closely with therapists to understand their preferences, skills, and goals, and match them with travel therapy jobs that align with their needs. There are thousands of travel PT jobs out there, so finding a good fit isn’t difficult with a good company and recruiter in your corner.
In addition, many travel therapy companies have rigorous quality control measures in place to ensure that assignments meet their standards. They may conduct site visits, gather feedback from therapists, and monitor working conditions to ensure that therapists have a positive experience.
Myth #3: Travel Therapy Means Sacrificing Job Security and Benefits
A third myth is that pursuing travel therapy means sacrificing job security and benefits. Some believe that travel therapists are left to fend for themselves, without access to benefits, job security, or ongoing support.
However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Reputable travel therapy companies like AMN Healthcare offer competitive benefits packages, including health insurance and 401k plans.
They also provide ongoing support, including clinical support, professional development opportunities, and mentorship programs. With more than 1,000 open travel PT jobs, finding a job when I want one to maintain my job security has never been an issue.
Your Travel Therapy Journey Awaits
Travel physical therapy is a dynamic and rewarding career path that offers numerous benefits and opportunities. By debunking common myths and misconceptions about the field, I hope to inspire more therapists to consider travel therapy as a viable and fulfilling career option. Whether you're a new graduate or an experienced therapist, travel physical therapy can provide a unique chance to explore new places, expand your professional network, and enhance your skills.
Looking for the right travel therapy partner? Explore the benefits and resources at your fingertips with AMN Healthcare.
Written by Jared Casazza, PT, DPT
Jared Casazza graduated with his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Radford University in 2015. He began his career as a traveling physical therapist immediately after graduation, along with his wife and fellow PT, Whitney. Since then, Jared and Whitney have worked in five different states as Travel PTs, but have been able to visit all 50 states between travel therapy contracts. In addition to their extensive travels in the US, the couple has been able to visit more than 50 countries abroad between travel therapy contracts. Together Jared and Whitney are known as the Travel Therapy Mentors and have mentored and educated thousands of clinicians and students to help them begin their own travel therapy journeys. You can learn more and contact them for advice on getting started with travel therapy at Travel Therapy Mentor.
