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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

1. General

Who is ATC West Healthcare Services?

We are the Premiere Healthcare Staffing Agency in California. We are a branch of the ATC Healthcare Services Brand with offices located throughout Southern and Northern California. We have over 20 years of healthcare staffing experience as well as over 10 years experience in international recruitment through our subsidiary Global Nurses Online that allows us to serve top facilities throughout the state.

At ATC West we are dedicated to Excellence and Service in Healthcare. As a Joint Commission Accredited Healthcare Organization we uphold the highest standards in healthcare staffing and are passionate about placing the best healthcare professionals at some of the most prestigious facilities in the country. We believe that our job is to make sure that our client facilities have the most qualified staff serving the needs of their patients. Our devoted team of Recruiters, Nurse Care Specialists and Travel Liaisons, along with our Director of Nursing, work around the clock to meet the needs of our healthcare professionals.

Why should I choose ATC West Healthcare Services for my travel assignment over all the other companies in travel nursing?

If this is the beginning of your travel nursing career or if you have completed assignments in the past, ATC wants to make sure that you are as successful as possible. We believe that the first step towards success is choosing the right Travel Company.  
Choose ATC West Healthcare Services if you wish to partner with a company that:

Honors you as a professional by paying top industry wages. We offer the most competitive pay rates, shift differentials and generous tax free stipends.

Has the best recruiters in the industry. Our recruiters are experienced, industry savvy and have the ability to get you the assignments other agencies can’t. You will be able to reach your recruiter any time and they will be your partner in ensuring your success. 

Gives you personal attention. At ATC you have an entire team dedicated to you and your success. Your Recruiter, Travel Liaison and Nurse Care Specialist are available 24/7 to ensure that you are completely satisfied with your assignment, accommodations and to be your support throughout your assignment.

Arranges for you to stay in luxurious fully furnished resort style housing while on your assignment. All of our housing communities offer cable, wireless internet, secured entry and are located within a few miles of your workplace. Our travel liaisons arrange your flight, rental car and housing so that your move to California and a new facility is a seamless transition. If you incur any expense while traveling to or from an assignment we will reimburse you - tax free.

Focuses on You and Your Career – At ATC we believe that your success equals our success. We want to help you in pursuing whatever necessary to advance your career, whether it is your next assignment, pursuing a higher degree or even accepting a permanent position.

Call  (800) 323-7408  x110
to experience the difference that a loving and nurturing company makes.

Call us now at 1 800 323 7408 or APPLY ONLINE now to start an assignment that will make all the difference in the world.

Why should I consider being a travel nurse?

Being a traveler nurse allows for flexibility, adventure and is an ideal way to build skills, meet new people and see different places.  As a healthcare professional you will gain invaluable experience working in different types of facilities which will make you more marketable in today’s competitive job market. If reaching your maximum potential in your specialty is your final goal, traveling with ATC West Healthcare Services is the fastest road to success.

What are the requirements?

The requirements vary depending on your discipline. RNs, LPNs and Certified Surgical Technologists need at least one year of recent acute care experience. Respiratory Care Practitioners, PTAs, OTAs, Imaging Professionals, Pharmacists and Medical Laboratory Professionals, must also have one year of recent experience. Registered PT, OT and SLP Professionals with less than one-year experience will be considered for certain positions.

What do I need to be a successful traveler?

An outgoing attitude, flexibility and a focus on being of service at all times is key. Having a sense of adventure and an openness to try new things will also help.

I have plenty of experience but I have not worked for the last few years. Can I still do a travel assignment?

Your acute care experience must be within the last three years in order to satisfy the requirements for many of our client facilities. If this doesn’t apply to you we may still have openings that fit your experience, speak to your recruiter to get a better understanding of what is possible We will give you advice and direct you to the best career option for you.

Can I work as a traveler in my hometown?

Yes, we have plenty of local "travel" opportunities. With our Local Travel Program you can still enjoy all the benefits of travel nursing, without leaving your family or the comforts of your home. It's a great way to balance your home life with a flexible and rewarding career.

How long will it take to approve my application and start my assignment?

Some travelers start their first assignment a week after submitting their application, while others plan their assignments several months down the road. How quickly you can start traveling depends on whether your documentation is in order and 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.

Can you find me a job in a particular city?

We have the industry's largest selection of assignments, in a variety of settings and specialties. Our recruiters will put forth the best effort to get you where you want to go, or present you with other great opportunities that you may not even be aware of

Can I choose when I can travel and also how long is the travel assignment commitment?

You always have a choice as to when you start an assignment and how long for you want to work for. Generally assignments are for a period of 13 weeks and you can renew for additional terms if there is mutual interest between you and the facility.

Can you keep me working as a traveler for a long period of time, e.g. 2 years?

Yes! As long as you are open-minded and flexible about travel assignments. If you're willing to plan ahead and make a commitment, it's likely that you'll be working continuously.

Can I bring my family and/or pets?

Yes, you can. Many people have traveled with family; friends or pets-it's a great opportunity to explore the country together. While there may be slightly higher costs for private housing or require a pet deposit, we do have options for travelers that allow them to travel with family and pets without incurring additional costs. Our Travel Liaisons and Recruiters specialize in providing you with arrangements that fit your needs.

Can I speak with some of your other travelers to get a better picture of travel healthcare?

Absolutely! This is one of the best ways to clarify if traveling is really for you. Who better, than from travelers themselves, to shed light on the entire travel healthcare experience? Simply ask your Recruiter to connect you with another traveler currently working with our company and learn how your life can be enhanced by traveling with our company.

Does ATC West Healthcare Services offer Clinical Support?

Yes. Our Director of Nursing is a knowledgeable resource available to you to answer any questions regarding any clinical related issue.  

How can I stay in touch with ATC West Healthcare Services?

Call 1-800-323 7408 to reach our main line, e-mail travel@gno.cc or call our recruiters and nurse care specialist today and get a personalized response to all your questions. You can reach us 24x7.

We are always here for you.

Call  (800) 323-7408  x110

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2. The Assignment

How long is the commitment for a travel assignment?

ATC West Healthcare Services travel nurse assignments are typically a 13-week commitment period. Occasionally we may have 4, 8 or even 24 week assignments as needed by the healthcare professional and/or hospital.  Nurses may be asked to extend their assignment and can choose whether they want to remain at the facility or move on to something new. Many of our nurses have been known to stay at a hospital for over a year.

How do I choose an Assignment?

Once the recruiter has reviewed your application, references and skills checklist, they will work with you to identify your expectations, goals, and desired location of assignments in order to find the best opportunity for you. You will then be presented with the assignment options with details on pay rate, facility, unit, shifts, location and any bonuses. Thereafter you will have a phone interview with the facilities that you find of interest and you and your recruiter will agree on what assignment to take.

How many hours per week will I work at my travel nurse job?

You may work 36-48 hours per week depending on the facility you work at. If you are interested, you may also work overtime which would help increase your overall earnings. If your facility doesn't offer overtime our Contract Registry will work with you to staff you at nearby facilities so that you can get all the hours you need to make the money you desire.

Do you offer 12-hour shifts?

Yes we do. The majority of our shifts are 12 hours and in California, employment law requires time a half to be paid after 8 hours worked per shift. Take advantage of this extra income earning opportunity by choosing to work with us in California! We offer a variation of shifts ranging from 8 to12 hours, depending on the facility and the type of unit worked.

Where are your travel positions located?

Many of ATC West Healthcare Services openings are here in California (Northern, Central, and Southern), . Through our network of ATC Healthcare Services branch offices we are able to offer you assignments throughout the country. For up-to-date information on the travel nursing opportunities we have available call us at 800 323 7408 or browse our Current Openings.

Can you tell me about available positions before my completed paperwork is on file?

Yes! We receive and fill positions daily and are always looking for the right candidate. The facilities’ needs are constantly changing but once we have detailed information about your skills, work experiences and travel goals we will be able to provide you with information about the most suitable opportunities.

What kind of facility will I work in as a traveler?

The majority of our travelers work in hospital settings. The size of the hospital ranges from a very large teaching hospital to a small community hospital.

If I like my assignment, can I continue to work at that facility or go full-time?

Although the majority of assignments last 13 weeks, many travelers choose to extend an assignment at the facility's request. And sometimes the match is such a perfect fit that the traveler becomes a full-time employee.

If I'm on assignment and after a few weeks or days find that I don't like it, am I obligated to stay?

You're obligated to the facility and us to complete your assignment. Beyond the terms of each contract, the choice to continue traveling is purely up to you. We will work with you to provide you with all the relevant information you need about each facility and each location. We will also work with the facility to address any concerns you may have so that you can enjoy your travel assignment. We are here for you and we want you very happy!

If the facility decides I'm not meeting their needs, can they let me go?

Like you, facilities are obligated by the terms of the contract. They do their best to make sure they've selected the right candidate; however, in cases of certain terminable behavior the facility may cancel the contract. Our Director of Nursing will work with you and the facility to try and mitigate the extenuating circumstances and provide counsel as needed, however if there is not a fit, then the facility will cancel the contract.

If I take a 13-week assignment, am I expected to work for the full 13 weeks, or does some of that time count as on-call or other free time?

You're expected to complete the required number of hours as well as the specified terms of the contract. Specific schedules will be worked out with each facility.

How do I go about obtaining a license for the state my assignment is in?

ATC West Healthcare Services has a Credentialing Manager that will assist you in getting the necessary license, credentials and certifications for your particular assignment.

Call  (800) 323-7408  x110



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3. Application Process 

How can I start my travel nursing career with ATC West Healthcare Services?
Its as easy as 1-2-3

  1. Download and complete the online application. Email, Fax or Mail back to our office so we can begin compiling your profile.
  2. Provide at least 3 professional references and copies of your license and certifications.
  3. Complete the relevant skills checklist for your specialty.

Once these three steps are complete our recruiters will immediately begin looking for the right assignment for you.

What are the minimum requirements?

To become a travel nurse with ATC West Healthcare Services, you must have the following qualifications: 

At least one year experience in an acute care setting for hospital contracts
Must have a valid US state RN license
Must complete all the required application documents and skills checklists.
Minimum of one year experience in your specialty
Current License (that does not expire during the assignment period)
Current CPR/BLS (American Heart Association only)
Current Physical
Negative PPD or Chest X-ray
Immunizations or Titers for MMR and Varicella
Hepatitis D vaccinations or declination form
Other documentation as needed including drug screen and consent for background checks, etc.

If you meet the above qualifications then Apply Now and begin your next travel assignment as soon as next week!

Can I send my resume in place of the application or 'previous employment' section?

Your application is much more than a resume: it helps us thoroughly understand your specialties and skills so we can match you with the right assignment. We need your ATC West Healthcare Services application completely filled out, signed and returned to us to get the traveling process under way.

Am I under any obligation after submitting my application?

No you are not at all. Your application is simply used as a qualification for you to travel. You can choose to travel now or in the future. Once we process your application there will be an assignment waiting for you whenever you decide to travel (in some cases you may need to update the information depending on how much time has elapsed since your application). So submit your application today.

Why do you need my Social Security Number?

Legally, we need your Social Security Number to complete the tax forms that make you an ATC West Healthcare Services employee.

What should I do with my reference letters? Do I send them or give them to my employer to send?

Your references are an important part of the assessment process. You need two current and above average references to be eligible to travel. Once you have given us permission to contact your references they can be completed one of three ways

Sign and return your forms and let your Recruiter know whom to contact when your traveling date draws near.

Sign and send your letters to your employers, and ask them to return them to us.

Send a copy of a recent performance evaluation in place of the reference.

Will you be contacting my employer?

We'll never contact your current employer without your expressed permission. Just place a reminder note on your application stating that you'd prefer we not contact your current employer at this time.

What if my employer refuses to give me a reference?

That is fine. We understand that some facilities will only give dates worked and if you're eligible for re-hire.

Are there any fees associated with your services?

No, never.

When do I become an ATC West Healthcare Services employee?

You become an ATC West Healthcare Services employee as soon as you start your first assignment. We withhold and pay all of your employment taxes, health insurance, and Worker's Compensation, so you can focus on doing what you do best - nursing. You may sign up for any benefits that are available, such as health insurance, 401(k) and dental insurance (benefit start dates may vary depending on your date of application).

Do I need a license for each state I take an assignment in?

You need a license for every state in which you work (unless otherwise stated by the licensing body of your specialty). Just call the state's Board and request an application. Every state has different requirements; and we try to help make the process as simple as possible. Most states require a fee and verification; some may send home tests or require fingerprinting and criminal background checks. You don't need your American Boards for every state. While you are responsible for obtaining the necessary license to work in California, the ATC Credentialing Manager along with your Recruiter will assist you every step of the way.

If I'm licensed to travel in one state, how long does it take to get licensed in the next state I'm traveling to?

It depends on the state: each has different licensing regulations. You may be able to get your license the same day you apply, or it may take up to several months.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once we receive your completed application, an ATC West Healthcare Services recruiter will call you. They will assess your traveling and clinical preferences, and review all available travel RN jobs suitable to your interests and qualifications. Your Recruiter will then submit your profile to the facilities you have chosen. We endeavor to work with our client facilities to get quick turnarounds to your submissions. Once you accept a position, we will send you all the necessary documents to get you started on your travel nursing job. You will be contacted by a Travel Liaison to discuss your living accommodations while on your assignment (if necessary). Travel arrangements will be made at this time as well. Your Recruiter will be available to assist you on your assignments before, during, and after your placement.

Call  (800) 323-7408  x110


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4. Pay and Bonuses

How much can I expect to earn?

Many of our current travelers earn anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000 per month salary depending on location, specialty, and number of shifts worked a week. We work very hard to streamline our operations so that we can offer travelers only the best pay rates available!

How will I be paid?

ATC Healthcare West pays allowance and earnings on a weekly basis.  We offer direct deposit or you may choose to have your check mailed to you. We also offer instant pay where you can work today and get paid tomorrow! (Some restrictions apply)

What's the definition of overtime?

In most cases, overtime is time-and-a-half pay after 40 hours worked per week. California has specific overtime laws that pay overtime after 8 hours worked. Ask your Recruiter for details about your particular assignment. Because most of our assignments are in California you will receive overtime for hours worked over 8 in a given day.

Do you offer license reimbursement?

Yes. Upon completion of your assignment, forward us a copy of your permanent license along with proof of payment and we will reimburse your license fee. We will pay to keep your license and certifications current as long as you work for us in that state.

Do you offer referral bonuses for referring another nurse to ATC West Healthcare Services?

Yes! We greatly appreciate any referrals you send to us. For every nurse you refer who is not in our current database and completes an assignment, we pay anywhere from $500 to $1000 per referral depending on specialty! We offer unlimited referral bonuses so start telling your friends and collegues about how much you enjoy working for ATC.

Does ATC West Healthcare Services offer bonuses?

Yes. ATC West offers cash completion and loyalty bonuses depending on the assignment, the location and the facility.

How do I work out my taxes at the end of the year?

As your employer, ATC West Healthcare Services withholds your taxes; you are not an independent contractor. You will only pay taxes on the applicable earnings and do not pay taxes on housing subsidies or meal allowances which increases your net weekly take-home amount. At the end of the year, you'll receive a W-2 from every state in which you've worked.


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5. Benefits and Incentives

What benefits will I receive?

Some of your main benefits as an ATC Traveler include:

Medical Insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield
Dental and life Insurance
Travel reimbursement to and from your assignment
Free-private fully furnished apartment
Direct deposit
License reimbursement
Free Professional Liability insurance and workers compensation insurance

Can my spouse or dependents receive benefits?

Yes, you may add eligible dependents to our group plan. All you need to do is complete the enrollment paperwork and speak to our friendly recruiters to structure the best plan for your family. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique and we are flexible to provide you with the best benefits to fit your needs. Any deductions for additional benefits will be done (weekly) from your paycheck on a pre-tax basis further saving you money.

When do my benefits begin?

All standard benefits begin as soon as you start your assignment. The health and dental insurance is effective the first day of the calendar month.

If I don't need health insurance, can I opt for cash?

Yes. You can choose to receive a fixed benefit payment each month instead of insurance coverage.

Do you have a retirement plan?

ATC West Healthcare Services offers a generous 401(k) plan with matching contribution.

Do I still have health benefits when I am not on assignment?

Yes. You may maintain your health benefits in between assignments.

Do you have any incentive programs?

Yes, we offer loyalty rewards after you complete you first assignment you become eligible to earn points that are directly redeemable for cash or travel rewards and other fun awards e.g. spa services, and other goodies.

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6. Housing and Travel

How do I get to my Assignment?

ATC will arrange and purchase your flight to and from your assignment. If you prefer to drive your personal vehicle, we reimburse mileage for travel to your assignment up to $300 ($.20/mile) each way ($600 maximum round-trip). We do recommend driving or having your vehicle transported to your assignment, since you'll want to explore your new surroundings and go sightseeing on your days off.  We can also provide you with a rental car if need be. You can usually move in to your new apartment a few days before your assignment begins which will give you plenty of time to unpack, get adjusted and prepare for your assignment.

Is Housing really free?

YES. ATC Travelers enjoy private 1 bedroom, fully furnished apartments or fully furnished efficiency studios /1 bedroom suites.

What Type of Housing do you provide?

Our Travel Liaisons works with only the most reputable apartment communities to provide you with comfortable and attractive housing conveniently located near your assignment. Your accommodation will be in move-in condition upon your arrival, complete with furniture and utilities. Many of our properties feature secure entry and luxurious amenities, including pools, fitness centers and tennis courts. Travelers also have the option to choose their own housing using the generous housing subsidy. We do our best to get you the finest housing near your assignment.

Will you provide accommodation if I travel with my spouse and/or children?

Absolutely! If you plan to travel with your spouse, partner, children or even pets, we will provide you with the best accommodation in a comfortable setting close to your workplace that suits your needs.

Will I be provided with free housing if I travel with a pet?

Yes. Most of our housing accommodations allow travelers to keep pets. You may have to pay a small pet deposit which varies from place to place. This will be returned upon completion of your assignment if the accommodations are clean and well maintained.

If I stay with a friend or relative while on assignment, will I lose my housing allowance?

No. As an ATC Traveler, you're eligible for subsidy payments regardless of where you live.

Do you provide me with a rental car while on assignment?

If you would like to have a rental car while on assignment, our travel liaison will take care of securing one for you. We will make the pick up and return a smooth transaction and you will not have to worry about your transportation while you are here.  As always, you are an individual with specific needs to your situation, and our recruiters and travel liaisons will structure the best plan for you. We treat you as an individual.

How much subsidy will I receive?

Subsidy amounts depend on the area's cost of living; they're calculated on a monthly basis and paid a weekly basis. Your recruiter can give you the exact amount in your initial conversation.

Am I taxed on my subsidy payment?

If you have a permanent residence, you will not be taxed. If you do not have a permanent residence, taxes will be deducted from your subsidy. Please consult your tax advisor or speak to your Recruiter for more information about housing allowances.

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ATC Healthcare West has
earned The Joint Commission’s
Gold Seal of Approval

Telephone #: (800) 323-7408 | Fax #: (866) 422-3935 | © Copyright 2009 ATC West Healthcare Services. All rights reserved.

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