As 2023 comes to an end, we decided to poll a few travel techs in the radiology and laboratory sector to see how they view travel assignments compared to just a year ago. Since the pandemic turned the world on its head in 2020, the effect it had on healthcare, and specifically employment, has been turbulent to say the least. A substantial percentage of technologists either left the profession, were delayed entering the job market, or decided to pursue travel (contract) assignments to capitalize on the money that was being offered at the time. While temporary staffing companies flourished during this time by charging employers inflated bill rates, things do seem to be slowing down as of the writing of this article.
LinkedIn Travel Technologist Poll
In a recent poll RSG Health Services conducted on LinkedIn, we simply asked, “Compared to one-year ago, how lucrative are travel contracts today?” Of the 460 travelers who responded, a whopping 74% believed temporary assignments are not as good as they were just a year ago. Of the remaining 26%, a modest 17% indicated they believe it is about the same, and 9% believe it is better than a year ago. This is not to say the temporary staffing industry is suffering. No, not by a long shot. But providers are now seeing pay rates being cut, incentives no longer being offered, and rising housing costs eat into their take home pay. Where some technologists have been extending contracts multiple times, some also indicated that hospitals are no longer renewing contracts.
What You Might Expect in 2024
So, what is to make of all this? Like most things, it is peaks and valleys, good and bad, and the ultimate changes that happen in our industry. I have been recruiting for 28 years and have been on many of these rollercoasters. For the new technologists reading this, employment options have not always been this good. I’ve seen a time when new technologists couldn’t find a job. So, don’t take it for granted. However, I do believe 2024 will be a good year for most of us, and I also believe we will see more of the current trends of pay cuts and fewer assignments to choose from. Frankly, some technologists are now coming off the road after living out of a suitcase for the past few years and are more than ready to settle into a new routine. Sure, travel work can be rewarding for a while. But it can also be exhausting for the person and their family. Eventually, travelers end up missing friends, family, pets, and a set routine.
Pay vs. Stability and Routine
As a permanent placement agency for radiology, laboratory, and cardiology, we hear a lot of stories from travelers. Many love to brag online about how much money they make. You can also see what is being offered by some temporary agencies on any given day just by going to the many different Facebook Groups and reading a post. However, you do not hear about the negatives. It is all about money. I guess that is fine if money is the only thing you care about. But I would venture to say, it is not for the vast majority of people. I could give a dozen examples of why it is not, but that is not for this article.
In conclusion, it appears the party is starting to dwindle just a bit. Some travelers will choose to leave the road and go home, while others will complain about their cut in pay, terrible work conditions, or expensive housing. And yes, many others will jump on the travel wagon and give it a whirl. There is no wrong or right of course, just this one observation from a guy in the industry who likes to share what he hears from the trenches. Whatever you decide to do, do it well, help others grow in the process, and treat your fellow man with respect.
