Despite the growing demand for travel nurses, there are many reasons why a travel nurse contract can or will be cancelled. This is a regrettable scenario you must prepare for as a healthcare traveler.
It happens. The most unfortunate part of a contract cancellation is that the reasoning can be murky. Don’t let this bring you down. This in no way ruins your reputation, and you will find another travel position. It’s just sadly a part of the business.
In most cases, if your contract gets cancelled, the hospital will inform your recruiter, and your recruiter will tell you. This tends to happen quickly with virtually no warning. However, the hospital will sometimes notify you two weeks before cancelling your contract. If this is the case, you at least have some extra time to deal with it and figure out your next move.
Contract cancellations can occur before a contract begins, during a contract term, and prior to/during an extension, so it’s essential to be prepared. Here are a few things to keep in mind in this scenario.
It’s frustrating but not your fault
The first thing you should do once you’re cancelled is not to take it personally. Cancellations are not a personal attack on you but rather the hospital reevaluating the need or capacity to take on new travelers. It should be noted that there are exceptions. If you are not qualified for the job, have lied in your interview, call in sick repeatedly, and generally don’t get along with the staff, then you will be held responsible, though these cases are rare. We said it once, and we’ll say it again for those in the back; in most cases, cancellations are not a reflection on you as a nurse.
What to do after a cancelled contract
Look for opportunities in that location
Always have a plan B. If you’ve worked in your cancelled contract location, discuss options in that area with your recruiter to see if other opportunities are available to avoid moving. If your current recruiter cannot find a new placement, don’t hesitate to speak with another travel agency. Lastly, always have your documents ready to go for a quick start. This helps minimize the time it will take to start your next assignment.
Make sure you have Savings
We know this isn’t what you want to hear when you’re stressed and panicked. But sadly, it’s true. Creating a savings account is something you should consider before ever starting an assignment. It’s also a good idea to have at least three months of expenses saved in case of cancellations or unexpected costs. Never put yourself in a position where a week or two without pay could cripple you financially.
Read the reviews
Like many other jobs, reviews can keep you informed about facilities. When researching future contracts, explore the facility regarding previous contract cancellations. There are many Facebook groups and Google searches regarding facility cancellations online. Some facilities may be listed as a habitually contract cancellation location, so you may want to reconsider the facility.
Utilize your support network
We cannot stress enough how powerful and yet underutilized this can be. No matter the reason for contract cancellation, it will leave you with myriad feelings. Frustration, defeat, incompetence, etc. Take this time to reach out to your support system. If this is family, friends, travel nursing groups, your recruiter— or your dog-walker that you’ve gotten kind of close to. Reach out, share the experience, and embrace your network to help you through this difficult time.
How Blu MedStaff can help
First and foremost, you are more than allowed to be upset about a cancelled contract. However, the most important thing you can do is make sure you are working with a reliable staffing agency that will back you in the event of a cancelled contract and work hard to find you a new assignment. Alternatively, contact your recruiter as soon as you think you’ll need to cancel a contract for an emergency. They may be able to work with you and the facility to reach an ideal outcome for all parties.
While resiliency runs in the blood of a healthcare traveler, we never want you to stiff-upper-lip-it; we want to feel confident in getting back up and out on the road. We’ll be right behind you if, when, and wherever you need us.
Contact Blu Medstaff today, and let’s get you out on your next assignment!
