Feeling comfortable and confident in your job is important, and that is especially true as a travel medical professional. Adapting quickly to a new hospital or clinic is vital for success in a temporary assignment.
In this article, we dive into how to connect with your new team and other travelers, mastering the EMR system, and communication with your recruiter.
Research the New Hospital or Clinic Before Arrival
Once you’ve signed a contract, ask your recruiter for information about your new hospital or clinic.
- What’s the address?
- Where will you be reporting for work on the first day?
- Where is the parking?
- Can you connect me to other travelers from the agency who have worked at this facility?
Map your route before your first commute. Then, do a dry run before your first shift to find exactly where you’re going, where to park, and how to find your department. The last thing you want is to be late on your first day.
Connect with others who have worked at the facility. Your recruiter may be able to connect you to travelers from the agency. You can also use social media like LinkedIn or groups for travelers to connect with people.
We also recommend reviewing onboarding materials. You will be required to attend an orientation and want to be prepared before you start. Your recruiter can provide additional information in this regard, so it is worth it to ask them about it.
Arrive Early and Observe
Now that you’ve done a dry run of your new commute, arrive early for your first shift and observe. Make notes of the facility layout, equipment, and department workflow. This will help you find your way when your shift begins. Pay close attention to how staff interact and how tasks are handled. Even if you’ve done something different, we encourage you to learn their way as you are there to help, not update their procedures.
Build Relationships with your Team
When it comes to fitting in as the new person, introduce yourself and ask questions. Even if you’re working in a familiar specialty, asking questions will help you learn about the culture of the facility, and show a willingness to help. Offer to buy coffee as an ice breaker. We know medical professionals love their coffee!
Take notes as you’re going through your shift so you can easily recall supply locations, key protocols, and key contacts. No one expects you to know everything on the first day; they appreciate when you pay attention and catch on quickly.
Master the EMR System Quickly
Each place you work as a travel medical professional will have a different Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the one you’ll be using. Take advantage of onboarding and training. Take notes and review the materials they provide. Even if you’ve worked with the type of EMR, they may use it differently than you’re accustomed to.
Lean on Your Recruiter for Support
Your recruiter is your biggest support while you’re traveling. Reach out to them frequently and lean on them to answer your questions. If you have a housing issue, ask for help. If you aren’t sure who you report to or how to get somewhere, just ask. They are there to guide you and get you through your contract with limited stress.
Reflect and Improve for Future Assignments
You always want to be ready for future assignments. As you’re wrapping up your current one, write the successes and add them to your resume. Note things like what you liked and didn’t like and share them with your recruiter for your next assignment. We want to be sure you’re well matched.
At AB Staffing, we strive to match you with contracts suitable for your skills, experience, and wish list. While we can’t be perfect, your feedback helps us ensure your future success. Adapting to a new hospital or clinic as a travel medical professional is easier when you can familiarize yourself with the commute and facility ahead of time, pay attention and take notes, and communicate with your recruiter.
Ready for your next assignment? Check out the AB Staffing Job Board. We look forward to working with you!
