Health Care Staffing

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) for Per Diem and Local Contracts

All the FAQS, Just the FAQS about Per Diem and Local Contract Assignments with HCS.

Don't see your question here? No problem. to ask your question. We will email you a response.

How do I become a member of the HCS healthcare team?
Want to get started right away? Our process is simple. Go to the Apply Online section on our website to start the process.

What are the minimum qualifications?
To become an HCS nurse or allied healthcare provider, you need to provide a valid professional practice license or certification and proof of the right to work in the United States. We require at least one year of professional nursing or allied experience before we can hire you. But don’t be discouraged the jobs, not to mention the pay rates, improve dramatically with every year of experience you gain in your field!

Am I under any obligation to work for HCS after I submit my application?
Not at all. Your application is just a way for us to get to know you so if you decide you want to work for us we can find your dream job.

How can I find out what assignments are available for per diem or local contracts?
Per Diem needs by their nature are constantly changing; our staffing coordinators will let you know what shifts are available once you have become active.

How can I find out what shifts you have available?
Decide which hospitals are of interest to you and ask one of our staffing coordinators. Our shifts vary depending on what facility you choose to work. The majority of our shifts are usually 8 or 12 hours. We work with our facilities to ensure that you are not floating needlessly.

Are there a minimum number of shifts required to be considered per diem?
We require a minimum availability of 24 hrs per week.

Are there any fees associated with applying with HCS?
Never! At Healthcare Staffing, you are our first priority. We work hard to find you numerous job opportunities to choose from.

Do I have to commit to a long term local contract?
No, we require a minimum availability of 24 hrs per week.

How much will I earn?
At HCS, we have some of the most competitive rates in our markets. The amount you will earn is dependent upon several factors including the facility in which you will be working, the shift, the area, and long term contracts versus per diem shifts.

When and how do I get paid?
Desiring the freedom of a paycheck without limits? With HCS, you decide your payday! Whether you want to get paid the same day as your shift, weekly, bi-weekly, or any time between, it is all up to you! Tired of waiting for a paycheck to clear or waiting in long lines at the bank? We offer direct deposit.

I am an independent contractor?
If you desire to work as an independent contractor, HCS can accommodate you. You will have to provide a tax id number, proof of insurance and sign an independent contractor agreement.

What is my tax status with the IRS?
When you work for Healthcare Staffing tax day is a breeze! You are a part of the HCS staff, not an independent contractor, so we withhold your taxes. And at the end of the year, you’ll receive a W-2 form.

Do you offer referral bonuses?
If you have a friend you think would make a great Healthcare Staffing employee, you could be making some serious cash! We provide a referral bonus for every friend who qualifies under our bonus program. With all that cash, you can treat your friends to dinner!

Do I get a sign on bonus?
For long term contracts and travel assignments, sign on bonuses are often a part of the compensation package.

What benefits do you offer for per diem work?
HCS offers a full range of benefits such as Healthcare and Dental insurance. Your eligibility to participation in these plans is dependent meeting the insurance company’s eligibility requirements. HCS covers all of our employees with Worker’s Compensation and Professional Liability insurance from your first day of paid employment.

What benefits are offered if I accept a local contract?
HCS offers a full range of benefits such as Healthcare and Dental insurance. Your eligibility to participation in these plans is dependent meeting the insurance company’s eligibility requirements. There may also be special bonuses offered on these contracts such as sign on and/or completion bonuses. HCS covers all of our employees with Worker’s Compensation and Professional Liability insurance from your first day of paid employment.

When do my benefits start?
How does a month sound? That’s right, with HCS if you accept a 36 hour per week or more long term or travel assignment you are eligible for such insurance at the beginning of the next month. You are covered by Workman’s Compensation and Professional Liability insurance starting your first day of paid work. We make sure that we cover you from all angles.

Can I cover my spouse or children on my benefits plan?
Sure! You can add your spouse or your dependent children, or other dependents to your insurance for an additional monthly premium. All you need to do in order to add your family to your insurance is complete the enrollment paperwork and pay the monthly premium. All dependents must meet the insurance company’s eligibility requirements.

Do I still have benefits even if I am not on an assignment?
No, a minimum of 36 hours per week is required for an HCS employee continue eligibility for benefits.

Do you offer free education?
Now furthering your education is as easy as a click of a mouse! Our RNs and LPNs take online continuing education at their leisure. Several online nurse testing sites have been added to our website. These sites offer various free education programs.

How long are your local contracts?
Local contracts generally last from 8 to 13 weeks, travel assignments are generally 8 to 26 weeks.

How many per diem shifts can I expect to work?
It is totally up to you and what shifts are available at the hospitals you are most interested in.

Where are your assignments in Atlanta?
HCS is one of the most experienced company’s in the Atlanta per diem market. We hold contracts with the majority of hospitals in greater Atlanta that use per diem staffing services. Check with your staffing professional for our current contract or go to the Career Center to see our current offerings.

Are local contracts fulltime or part-time?
They are mostly fulltime but there are some part-time contracts. Local Contracts are usually from 24 to 36 hours per week.

How do I choose an assignment?
It is totally up to you!! Decide where you are interested in working and we will make it happen if there are shifts available.

How will HCS prepare me for an assignment?
Once you have found a shift or contract that appeals to you, your HCS staffing coordinator will confirm your start date, shift, unit, and hourly pay rate. We will then give you an orientation that will familiarize you with the features and policies of your chosen facility.

Can I get housing and travel allowances if I already live in Atlanta?
The IRS has very strict rules concerning housing and other nontaxable allowances for local healthcare providers working a local contract. You should consult your tax advisor before accepting any nontaxable housing or other allowances to avoid adverse tax consequences. Local hospitals also impose restrictions on these types of allowances. HCS carefully follows the IRS tax code to keep you out of tax trouble.

How long will it take to approve my application and get an assignment?
Not long at all!! The placement process goes quickly once you provide us with your application and credentials. So, as long as you work with us to get you working, you’ll be joining the HCS family soon!

What do I do if I don’t like my assignment?
If at any reason you are not happy with an assignment, let your staffing coordinator know what the problem is and we will try our very best to correct it.

What happens after I complete my assignment?
If you are working on a long term contract there is often the opportunity to extend the contract for additional periods. If you wish to change locations after the completion of your contract simply let your staffing coordinator know at least three weeks in advance so we can market your skills and have another contract ready when you are.

Why should I work for HCS instead of a hospital?
When you work with Healthcare Staffing, you never have to worry about anyone setting your schedule ever again. It’s all up to you. As an HCS employee, you will earn premium pay and have access to a full benefit plan and the flexibility to choose your facility, your shift, and your assignment.

What if I need help after business hours?
Twenty-four hours seven days a week. Every hour of everyday, we are here for you, even holiday, no exceptions.

Where is your office located?
We have offices in Atlanta, Rome, Dalton, Darien, Griffin and Savannah Georgia. Just use our location finder to find the HCS office that is right around the corner from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) for Travelers

All the FAQS, Just the FAQS about Travel Assignments with HCS Travelers.
Don't see your question here? No problem. to ask your question. We will email you a response.

How do I become a member of the HCS Travelers healthcare team?
Want to get started right away? Our process is simple. Go to the Apply Online section on our website to start the process.

What are the minimum qualifications?
To become an HCS travel nurse or allied healthcare provider, you need to provide a valid professional practice license or certification and proof of the right to work in the United States. We require at least one year of current professional nursing or allied experience before we can hire you. But don’t be discouraged the jobs, not to mention the pay rates, improve dramatically with every year of experience you gain in your field!

Am I under any obligation to work for HCS Travelers after I submit my application?
Not at all. Your application is just a way for us to get to know you so if you decide you want to work for us we can find your dream job. You can choose to travel now or in the future. Once the application process is completed, we can help you find a travel assignment whenever you decide the time is right.

How can I find out what assignments are available for travel contracts?
We offer assignments in all 50 states including rural areas and metro areas. Have a particular destination in mind? Tell us where you want to go and we will search for a travel assignment in that location!

How do I choose a travel assignment?
The process begins with completing our application and skills checklist. Once these are reviewed, your recruiter will discuss your assignment expectations and your desired location to find the best travel assignment for you. You will then be given details on the available assignment including pay rate, facility type, unit, shifts, location, housing and bonuses.

If the assignment interests you, your recruiter will set up a phone interview with the facility. After you interview, you and your recruiter will discuss if the assignment is a good fit for you. If you decide to accept the assignment, we will ask you to sign a contract specifying the details of the assignment.

Can I work as a traveler in my home town?
You can work local contract assignments with HCS Travelers. Certain limits apply within a fifty mile radius on travel benefits. Speak with one of our recruiters to discuss if a local travel contract is right for you.

How long are the travel assignments you have available?
Typically assignments are thirteen weeks in length. However, we have assignments ranging from as little as four weeks up to 26 weeks. Like the assignment and want to stay? Many times there is an opportunity to extend your contract at that facility.

Are there a minimum number of weeks required to be considered a traveler?
We require a minimum four week assignment at 32-40 hours per week to be considered a traveler.

Are travel assignments full time or part time?
All of our assignments are for full time hours (32-40 hours per week). If you would like to work more hours, many assignments also offer the opportunity to work overtime. Check with your staffing coordinator about the availability of overtime for your assignment.

What types of facilities will I work in as a traveler?
Our travel professionals typically will work in hospital settings. However, we do have other opportunities available from time to time.

Are there any fees associated with applying with HCS Travelers?
Never! At HCS Travelers, you are our first priority. We work hard to find you numerous job opportunities to choose from.

Do I have to commit to a long term contract?
No. Your commitment to HCS Travelers only extends for the length of the travel assignment you agree to take. Typically assignments are 4,8,13 or 26 weeks in length.

How long will it take to complete the application process and start my assignment?
Generally the credentialing process takes between seven and ten days. Travelers can start their first assignment a week after submitting their application, while others plan their assignments several weeks or months in advance. How quickly you can start traveling depends on whether your credentials are in order and your license is current for the state where you will be practicing. We will work with you to help you get all the paperwork and credential requirements organized in time for your assignment start date.

What are the state licensing requirements for my assignment?
Your recruiter will advise you on the specific requirements for the state in which you have chosen to take an assignment. For more information on state licensure requirements for nursing and allied health professionals, visit our state licensing section.

What happens after I complete my assignment?
After your assignment is complete, you choose the option that is best for you. Many facilities will give you the option of extending your current contract assignment, or may offer you a permanent position at their facility. If you prefer, you can travel to a new assignment, or even return home and travel at a later date. It's your choice!

How much will I earn?
At HCS Travelers, we have some of the most competitive rates in our markets. The amount you will earn is dependent upon several factors including the facility and location in which you will be working, the shift, and your specialty. We work hard to negotiate top rates for our travelers. For specific pay rate information, please speak with your recruiter.

When and how do I get paid?
Desiring the freedom of a paycheck without limits? With HCS, you decide your payday! Whether you want to get paid weekly, bi-weekly, or any time between, it is all up to you! Tired of waiting for a paycheck to clear or waiting in long lines at the bank? We offer direct deposit.

What if I am an independent contractor?
If you desire to work as an independent contractor, HCS can accommodate you. You will have to provide a tax id number, proof of insurance and sign an independent contractor agreement.

What is my tax status with the IRS?
When you work for HCS Travelers tax day is a breeze! You are a part of the HCS staff, not an independent contractor, so we withhold your taxes. And at the end of the year, you’ll receive a W-2 form.

Do you offer referral bonuses?
If you have a friend you think would make a great HCS Travelers employee, you could be making some serious cash! We provide a referral bonus for every friend who qualifies under our bonus program. With all that cash, you can treat your friends to dinner!

Do I get a sign on bonus?
For long term local contracts and travel assignments, sign on bonuses are often a part of the compensation package.

Are there other cash bonuses offered?
Many assignments may offer a renewal or completion bonus. Ask your recruiter for more information about our bonus plans.

What benefits are offered if I accept a local or travel contract?
HCS Travelers offers a full range of benefits such as Healthcare and dental insurance. Your eligibility to participate in these plans is dependent on meeting the insurance company’s eligibility requirements. There may also be special bonuses offered on these contracts such as sign on and/or completion bonuses. We offer web based travel resources, an HCS Perks Plan for discounts, free private housing or a generous housing stipend, and free education resources. HCS Travelers covers all of our employees with Worker’s Compensation and Professional Liability insurance from your first day of paid employment.

For more information on our benefits program, visit our Pay and Benefits Section.

When do my benefits start?
How does a month sound? That’s right, with HCS Travelers if you accept a 36 hour per week or more long term or travel assignment you are eligible for such insurance at the beginning of the next month. You are covered by Workman’s Compensation and Professional Liability insurance starting your first day of paid work. We make sure that we cover you from all angles.

Do I still have benefits even if I am not on an assignment?
No, a minimum of 36 hours per week is required for an HCS Travelers employee to continue eligibility for benefits.

Do you offer free education?
Now furthering your education is as easy as a click of a mouse! Our nursing and allied healthcare professionals can take online continuing education at their leisure. Several online sites have been added to our website. These sites offer various free education programs.

Can I travel with my family or with pets?
Yes! Traveling with your family and pets allows them to share the fun and excitement of your travel experiences. You may be asked to contribute a modest amount for private housing and a pet deposit. Your recruiter will work with you to find the best housing arrangements for your family and pets.

How will I get to my travel assignment?
HCS Travelers will assist you in choosing the options that are best for you. Most of our travel professionals prefer to drive to their assignment. This allows them the flexibility to sightsee and explore on their days off. Some prefer to fly to an assignment in a major city and utilize public transportation or rent a car. Your recruiter will provide you with detailed maps and directions on how to get to your assignment location and help you decide which option is best for you.

Will I be reimbursed for travel expenses?
Yes. We provide a generous tax free travel reimbursement.

What type of housing do you provide?
You will be provided with free, private, furnished housing while on a travel assignment. Our standard housing package is a private one bedroom apartment. In some locations you may be offered the choice of an extended stay suite hotel.

All housing will be located near your assignment. Travelers also have the option to choose their own housing using our housing stipend. For more information on housing, speak with your recruiter.

Will I receive a housing stipend if I stay with family or friends?
Certainly! If you provide your own housing accommodations, HCS Travelers will provide you with a weekly housing stipend. The amount of the stipend depends on the location of the assignment.

How will HCS prepare me for an assignment?
Once you have found a contract that appeal to you, your HCS Travelers staffing coordinator will confirm your start date, shift, unit, hourly pay rate and other contract details. We will then give you an orientation that will familiarize you with the features and policies of your chosen facility. You will receive detailed directions to your assignment and information about the location. We are available to you 24/7 to answer any question or provide support.

Can I get housing and travel allowances if I am working a local contract?
The IRS has very strict rules concerning housing and other nontaxable allowances for local healthcare providers working a local contract. You should consult your tax advisor before accepting any nontaxable housing or other allowances to avoid adverse tax consequences. Local hospitals also impose restrictions on these types of allowances. HCS Travelers carefully follows the IRS tax code to keep you out of tax trouble.

Why should I work for HCS Travelers instead of a hospital?
When you work with HCS Travelers, you never have to worry about anyone setting your schedule ever again. It’s all up to you. As an HCS Travelers employee, you will earn premium pay and have access to a full benefit plan and the flexibility to choose your facility, your shift, and your assignment location.

What if I need help after business hours?
Twenty-four hours seven days a week. Every hour of everyday, we are here for you, even holiday, no exceptions.