Advantages and Challenges of Travel Phlebotomy

The First Contract

This article will help you make a sound decision if you are choosing to travel as a Phlebotomist in the near future. I wish I would have had a guide this detailed before I took my first travel contract. Lets get into one of my experiences to help you better understand this post. 

 My first contract was one of the lowest paid of my entire phlebotomy career. My paycheck after paying for room and board was $456.00 no where close to sustaining yourself while living the nomadic travel life less more if I would have had a family with me I would have been up Shits creek without a paddle. I felt stuck! I had to learn quickly or I was going to drown. I ended up on my first day meeting another traveler that had been traveling for a few years so she knew how the whole travel thing worked.  She asked me a few questions like what company did I come with and what was the pay and was I provided with at stipend. I was so confused my company only offered me one flat rate and I thought I was doing great things until I realized I was not making any type of sustainable living. 

Broke, in a foreign rural town, no groceries and two weeks to the first paycheck my stomach started to turn. What had I gotten myself into? If it had not been for the O.G. traveler I would not have made it past the first day. The traveler helped me stock my shelves with two weeks worth of food and anything else I may need. After we left the grocery store I asked the traveler how she knew of my needs. She gently expressed that we are a strong network and team as travelers without this connection you can find yourself in situations where recruiters are not fully honest about where the traveler about the facility, its needs or the demographics once the service contract has been signed, leaving the traveler abandoned, unsupported or only answering your call when it is time to extend the phlebotomy contract. Now before anyone ask where was the recruiter that I signed my contract with? Again once your contract agreement has been signed the client or facility becomes more important than the traveler that has come to assist the facility. I always warn individuals to ask all the questions you have prior to signing the contract. If the recruiter becomes evasive, rude or down right refusal to ensure a smooth travel transition along with informing you of all the company perks that is you first red flag to " RUN. " Do not sign anything you are not fully comfortable agreeing too. 

Here is a list of what have been Advantages and Challenges that will help you make the best choice for you!

Advantages

Exploration of New Locations: There are many advantages to Traveling as a Allied healthcare professional or Phlebotomist. Travel phlebotomist have the opportunity to visit and work in various cities, states, or even countries. This allows them to explore new places, experience different cultures, and broaden their horizons. 

Diverse Work Environments: By working in different healthcare facilities, travel phlebotomist gain exposure to a wide range of medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and research facilities. This diversity enhances their skills, adaptability, and knowledge of different healthcare practices. 

Professional Growth and Skill Development: Travel phlebotomist encounter a diverse patient population, which challenges them to refine communication and interpersonal skills. They also learn to adapt to different equipment and procedures, enhancing their technical proficiency and versatility as phlebotomy professionals. 

Networking Opportunities: Working in various locations allows travel phlebotomists to connect with professionals in the field, expand their professional network, and establish valuable contacts for future career opportunities. 

Competitive Compensation: Travel phlebotomists often enjoy higher earning potential compared to their non-traveling counterparts. They may receive additional benefits such as travel allowances, housing accommodations, and healthcare coverage. 

Challenges of Travel Phlebotomy 

Adaption to New Environments: Travel phlebotomist must adapt quickly. Most facilities only review phlebotomist with at least 2 years of phlebotomy skill. Facilities expects the traveler to come experienced each organization has its own unique protocols, equipment, and administrative processes, requiring them to be flexible and open to change. 

Limited Stability: As travel phlebotomist move from one assignment to another, they may face periods of unemployment between contracts. This lack of stability can lead to financial uncertainty and if you are trying to purchase a home may damper your travel spirit because of the stability requirements and the need to consistently search for new job opportunities. 

Lack of Appropriate State Credentials: Different states or countries may have varying licensing requirements and regulations for phlebotomist and other allied professionals. Travel phlebotomist must ensure that they meet the necessary qualifications and stay updated with any changes in regulations to practice legally in each locations. 

Work-Life Balance: Frequent travel can disrupt personal routines like frequent school changes if you have school aged little ones. Being away from home for extended periods of time can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness. 

Logistics and Travel Fatigue: Frequent travel involves managing transportation, accommodations that may be sketchy or questionable. Long journeys, time zone changes, and irregular eating routine, can lead to physical and mental fatigue. 

Despite the many challenges while on my travel journey as an Allied professional it has bestowed my with growth, diverse experiences, and financial benefits. My desire is for everyone to have a rewarding and enriched travel career for themselves and their loved ones. 

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Until Next Time. 

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