Want to be a travel physical therapist? If you want to combine physical therapy with travel you’re in the right place. This article will walk you through the process from education and licensure to job opportunities and logistics. Read on to find out how to get started on this fun and dynamic career.
Key Points
- Be a travel physical therapist by getting your DPT, passing the NPTE and getting state licenses.
- Choose locations, get paid more and tax-free stipends.
- Prepare for travel therapy, job instability and housing by being organized and building relationships with recruiters.
What is a Travel Physical Therapist?
A travel physical therapist is a certified professional who takes on temporary contracts to fill workforce shortages in various healthcare settings. These contracts are usually 13 weeks but can be shorter or longer depending on the facility’s needs and the therapist’s preferences. Travel physical therapists get assignments in outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and home health services.
Unlike permanent employees, travel physical therapists get jobs through staffing agencies that match healthcare providers with short-term hires. Pursuing a travel physical therapy job is appealing for those who want to travel to new locations, get paid more and experience different work environments before committing to a permanent position. This works for both parties: facilities get qualified staff without long term commitments and therapists get to choose their work locations and regions. There’s a growing demand for these roles in hospitals and rehab centers where there’s often an immediate need for temporary staff.
You can work in all 50 states and sometimes even US territories — so you can keep on traveling. You’ll get to experience new places, meet new people and get extensive professional exposure without additional training or certification beyond what’s required for regular stationary physical therapy positions. This career is available immediately after graduation.
Being a travel physical therapist offers not just adventurous experiences by living in different cities but also potentially higher pay and broader clinical practice — making it an attractive way to combine professional development with personal discovery.
How to Become a Travel Physical Therapist
Being a travel physical therapist involves the same steps as a regular physical therapy role with a few extras to consider. First you need to fulfill the education requirements, pass the required tests and get the necessary licensure. Getting a bachelor’s degree is the first step towards getting a physical therapy degree. Becoming a travel physical therapist is easy. There’s high demand for these professionals. There are specialized job boards that update job listings and compensation information regularly.
Get Your Bachelor’s Degree and DPT
First get a bachelor’s degree in a related field. This degree is the foundation for further education in physical therapy. Next get a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The DPT degree is required as it provides the clinical skills and knowledge for licensure and practice.
Choose an accredited DPT program that meets the education requirements for physical therapy. This program will include rigorous coursework and clinical internships that prepares students for the real world of the profession.
Then you can be a travel physical therapist.
Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
For those wanting to be physical therapists, passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) is a big deal. It evaluates the necessary knowledge and skills for competent practice and is a requirement for licensure to practice in the US.
Passing the NPTE not only confirms your qualifications but opens up opportunities in travel physical therapy—a specialized area of practice that offers unique opportunities for physical therapists who pass this exam.
Get State Licenses or PT Compact Privileges
You need to get a license in each state where you will practice. State licensing requirements vary and may include background checks, school transcripts, verification of state licenses, board exam scores, fingerprints and jurisprudence exams. Knowing these requirements will make transitions between assignments smoother.
The PT Compact allows physical therapists to practice in multiple states with fewer licensing hurdles. After getting a compact privilege, therapists must pay a fee for each additional state and complete any required jurisprudence exams. This simplifies the licensing process and gives travel physical therapists more flexibility.
Get Clinical Experience
While not required in terms of a specific number of hours, getting hands on experience is very beneficial. This will help develop essential clinical skills and confidence thus making the transition to travel physical therapy roles easier.For new grad physical therapists, it might be beneficial to get a permanent job first. This way they can build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills before starting assignments as a travel physical therapist.
Connect with a Travel Physical Therapy Recruiter
Travel physical therapists get contracts through travel staffing firms, often working with recruiters who match them with job openings that fit their skills and preferences. Connecting with these recruiters can make the job search process smoother and get better positions.Ask relevant questions during phone interviews to confirm the facilities and roles meet what you’re looking for. This will help you avoid bad work settings and have a fulfilling career in travel physical therapy.
Career Path and Professional Development
As a travel physical therapist you’ll work in various settings and locations which can help you develop a wide range of skills and experiences. This can be beneficial for your career path and professional development as you’ll be able to adapt to new environments and challenges.
To advance in your career as a travel physical therapist consider the following:
- Work in Different Settings: Work in various clinical environments from outpatient clinics to hospital systems to broaden your skill set and knowledge. This diverse experience makes you more adaptable and resourceful.
- Continuing Education: Stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies in physical therapy by attending workshops, seminars and online courses. This ongoing education will enhance your clinical skills and keep you competitive in the job market.
- Network with Others: Build relationships with other healthcare professionals and fellow travel physical therapists to open doors to new opportunities and get valuable advice.
- Specialize: Specialize in a particular area of physical therapy such as pediatrics or sports medicine to increase your marketability and earning potential. Specialization shows expertise and commitment to your field.
- Develop Communication Skills: Communication and interpersonal skills are key to working with patients, colleagues and healthcare teams. These skills will help you build rapport and work efficiently in different settings.
By following these steps you can advance your career as a travel physical therapist and achieve your professional goals.
Benefits of Being a Travel Physical Therapist
Being a travel physical therapist has many perks. The career is known for its diversity, flexibility and adventure that many in the field love. Travel physical therapists get paid more than their non-traveling counterparts and get tax-free stipends that add to their income. Travel therapists fill short-term staffing gaps and provide the flexibility.
Travel physical therapists have control over their schedules and experience different clinical settings which not only helps in achieving a better work life balance but also professional development.
Higher Pay and Tax-Free Allowances
Travel physical therapists get a big financial advantage with the possibility of earning 15% to 20% more than their permanent colleagues, a great career path. They can get tax-free allowances for accommodation, meals and other expenses that add to their total compensation.
By extending contracts travel PTs can minimize out-of-pocket expenses and increase their income through these non-taxable stipends. They need to negotiate their salaries well since market and individual demand can affect what they can get.
For new grad physical therapists, venturing into travel assignments is very financially rewarding. New travel physical therapists can triple what they would earn in stationary positions. Depending on geographic demands and needs, weekly earnings in travel assignments range from $1,400 to $3,400.
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
Travel physical therapists have tons of flexibility with their schedules. They can choose their working hours, locations and employers at will. They can take vacations or breaks without needing permission.
For many in this field, their job is a lifestyle choice that gives a unique mix of work and play. The flexibility of their job allows them to pursue hobbies and maintain a balance between work responsibilities and personal life wellness.
Diverse Clinical Experiences
One of the best part of being a travel physical therapist is the opportunity to work in different clinical settings. This exposure includes hospitals to outpatient clinics and broadens their professional skills and knowledge. It makes travel physical therapists more adaptable and resourceful as they adapt to new situations.
Challenges of Travel Physical Therapy
Travel physical therapy has its advantages but it also has its challenges such as job insecurity, finding accommodation and feeling isolated. Taking assignments in busy facilities can lead to too much work and stress.
Approaching these challenges with a positive mindset can help overcome them and take advantage of the growth opportunities they offer.
Job Instability and Contract Cancellations
One of the biggest challenge faced by travel physical therapists is the possibility of contract cancellations which can disrupt their schedules and financial security. Unlike some other jobs, travel PTs are not entitled to paid time off so they feel job insecurity.
Overcoming these obstacles can make travel PTs more resilient and adaptable. Being able to handle unpredictability and bounce back from difficulties is a valuable trait in any profession.
Short-Term Housing
Finding short-term housing is a big challenge for travel physical therapists. Finding the right living quarters in preferred areas can be tough especially when those areas are in demand or have limited housing availability. Since their roles are temporary, travel PTs must become experts in quickly adapting to new accommodations.
To reduce the stress of regular moves it’s best to pack light and only bring essentials. By doing so they lighten the load of transitions and allow themselves to acclimate more seamlessly into new environments as they take on different assignments in various locations.
Health Insurance and Benefits Gaps
Physical therapists who travel may experience gaps in their health insurance coverage as they move from one contract to another. This can be particularly challenging for those with ongoing health needs. It’s best to research options and plan ahead to get the right insurance during these transition periods.
Tips for Success as a Travel Physical Therapist
Being successful as a travel physical therapist requires blending professional skills, communication skills and adaptability. Using tools like Travel Therapy Mentor, MedBridge and tuning in to resources like the Empowered Travelers Show on YouTube can boost knowledge and ongoing education in this field. Connecting with fellow travelers through online forums and social media groups can provide mutual support and sharing of experiences.
The journey of a travel PT is more enjoyable when you let go of expectations and be open to new adventures. Developing non-clinical skills including soft skills and organizational skills is key to rounding out your skills as a traveling clinician.
Build relationships with Recruiters
Having good relationships with recruiters is key when looking for top-notch travel physical therapy jobs. Recruiters with experience can offer valuable advice and place you in roles that fit your individual preferences and professional goals. For new grads, accumulating a couple of years of traditional work experience can provide mentorship and establish a strong foundation which is beneficial before moving into travel physical therapy positions.
Keep all professional paperwork and licenses in order. Create an organized system to track details related to assignments, deadlines and other important information to simplify the job search and management of subsequent placements within the travel physical therapy field.
Stay Organized and Prepared
Managing multiple contracts and assignments requires thorough organization and preparation. Clinically, travel physical therapists must hit the ground running, being competent from the start. This demands planning. Stay on top of different licensure requirements and be aware of any changes to avoid last minute hassles.
Organization helps with easier transitions between roles and contributes to success for those in travel physical therapy positions.### Be Open-Minded
Be open-minded. Before starting a travel physical therapy career you need to have confidence and comfort in your clinical skills since these jobs require you to be self-sufficient from the get-go. Independence and self-reliance is key to success in this field.
If you’re interested in international travel PT roles note that fluency in the local language and cultural awareness helps with patient and colleague interactions. Having these skills will help you thrive in different healthcare settings and maximize your travel PT experience.
Travel Physical Therapy Company
When choosing a travel physical therapy company consider the following:
- Reputation: Research online and ask for references from other travel physical therapists. A company with a good reputation is more likely to provide good support.
- Benefits: Look into the benefits offered, health insurance, retirement plans and paid time off. Benefits matter big time to job satisfaction and financial security.
- Job Opportunities: Choose a company that has many job opportunities in your desired locations and settings. This flexibility allows you to find assignments that fit your preferences and career goals.
- Support: Consider the level of support, mentorship programs and continuing education. A supportive company can help you navigate the challenges of travel PT and professional development.
- Pay and Benefits: Compare pay and benefits between companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Look for competitive packages that include housing and travel stipends.
Some popular travel physical therapy companies:
When researching companies read reviews and ask questions to make an informed decision.
Negotiating Your Contract
When negotiating your contract as a travel physical therapist consider the following:
- Research the Market: Know the average pay and benefits for travel physical therapists in your desired location and setting. This will give you a baseline for negotiations.
- Know Your Worth: Take into account your skills, experience and education when determining your worth. Be confident in your value and be prepared to advocate for yourself.
- Be Flexible: Be open to negotiating different aspects of your contract, pay, benefits and time off. Flexibility can get you a better overall package.4. Ask: Clarify the company’s policies and procedures so you understand your contract. Don’t be afraid to ask about pay rates, benefits and job expectations.
- Seek Advice: Consider seeking advice from a professional organization or mentor to help you through the negotiation process. Experienced professionals can offer valuable insight and support.
Some common contract negotiation points for travel physical therapists:
- Pay Rate: Make sure the pay rate is competitive and reflects your experience and skills.
- Benefits Package: Look for comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans and paid time off.
- Time Off and Vacation Days: Negotiate for enough time off to maintain a work-life balance.
- Housing and Travel Stipends: Ensure the contract includes stipends for housing and travel.
- Professional Development Opportunities: Look for continuing education and professional growth opportunities.
By being prepared and knowing your worth you can negotiate your contract and achieve your career goals.
International Travel Physical Therapy Jobs
PT jobs that allow travel are global and offer a mix of professional development and international adventure. These opportunities to work abroad as a PT may be fewer than domestic US based travel PT jobs but offer exposure to different medical systems and cultural environments and pay. The higher pay and flexible job structure draws PTs to these international roles.
However working as a travel PT outside one’s home country has its challenges. Prospective candidates must navigate complex processes involving visa procurement, verification of educational qualifications, various licensure requirements and language barriers. Note that pay for these roles internationally may not be the same as what’s offered for similar stateside travel PT jobs.
Despite the challenges faced by travel PTs working abroad contracts are often longer – over a year – which can yield rich personal experiences and professional growth within the PT field.
Resources for Aspiring Travel Physical Therapists
Travel PT aspirants have multiple resources to guide them through their career journey. Resources such as blogs about taxes for travelers, informative videos and job boards specific to travel PT provide valuable information about travel PT. A travel PT to be may find it useful to use services like Nomadicare which pairs traveling therapists with recruiters, quality job opportunities. Many insights and lessons learned in the travel PT field also apply to OT so prospective travelers in this field can benefit from shared advice and resources.Join the traveling physical therapist community and check out the Empowered Travelers Show on YouTube for tips. Use these resources to stay informed, prepared and connected with the travel PT world.
Start your travel physical therapy career and experience adventure, flexibility and professional growth. To get started take specific steps from getting the right degrees to connecting with recruiters. There will be challenges along the way but the benefits of competitive pay, varied clinical experiences and work-life balance make it a great option. With the right resources and determination you can thrive as a travel physical therapist and explore different parts of America or even internationally.
FAQs
What is a travel physical therapist?
A travel physical therapist is a licensed professional who takes short-term contracts to support healthcare facilities.
Get to see new places and make a difference in patients’ lives!
How do I become a travel physical therapist?
To become a travel physical therapist you need to first get a bachelor’s degree and complete a DPT program, then pass the NPTE and get your state licenses.
Finally get clinical experience and connect with a travel PT recruiter and start your journey!
What are the financial benefits of being a travel physical therapist?
Become a travel physical therapist and get higher pay rates plus tax-free allowances for housing, food and other expenses. This sweet deal allows you to increase your income while traveling.
Upgrade your lifestyle through this career!
What are the challenges of travel physical therapists?
Travel physical therapists face challenges like inconsistent employment and temporary housing.
Despite these challenges they get to have fulfilling experiences and unique opportunities in different settings.
Are there international travel physical therapy jobs?
Yes, international travel physical therapy jobs exist, working abroad despite the visa and licensure challenges.
Go on an adventure and expand your professional horizon!
