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Per Diem Nursing Vs Travel Nursing - Differences, Pros and Cons

Travel nursing is a highly profitable and exciting field, and while it offers a wide range of opportunities, there’s one major decision that needs to be made: per diem or travel nursing. Deciding between the two can be difficult, as they both have advantages and disadvantages that should be weighed carefully. This article will explore the pros and cons of both options and help travel nurses make an informed decision.

What Is Per Diem Nursing?

Per diem nursing is when a nurse is hired for short-term assignments. These assignments can range from a few days up to six months, with some as long as a year if renewed. On these assignments, nurses generally receive higher pay rates than staff nurses, as well as benefits such as housing and travel allowances. Per diem nurses are also able to pick and choose their assignments, allowing them to choose the locations and settings that interest them most.

What Is Travel Nursing?

Travel nursing is when a nurse works for longer assignments, usually lasting up to thirteen weeks. Travel nurses typically receive higher pay rates and benefits than other nurses, and they often have the choice of employers. Some travel nursing agencies allow nurses to select the regions and types of hospitals that appeal to them the most. Travel nurses often have the flexibility to choose their own schedules, often working different hours every day.

Breaking Down the Key Differences Between Per Diem Nursing and Travel Nursing

Here’s how per diem vs. travel nursing compare at a glance, with a focus on the core characteristics that define each type of position.

Per Diem Nursing

  • Provides increased flexibility to healthcare facilities and nurses by filling open shifts on an as-needed basis
  • Allows nurses to choose when they want to work, where, and how often
  • Offers nurses the ability to gain experience across multiple settings
  • Usually centered around local assignments
  • Premium hourly pay without benefits like retirement or paid sick days
  • Nurses may choose or be required to work different shifts or units, even within the same facility

Travel Nursing

  • Involves temporary nursing assignments at different locations across the country
  • Typically requires commitments of several months
  • Nurses are often provided with free housing or a housing stipend
  • Offers a high rate of pay and may also include bonuses as well as additional benefits like agency-provided health insurance and retirement plans
  • Provides nurses with an opportunity to gain new skills, meet new people, and explore new places
  • May require nurses to work long hours or weekends

Pros and Cons

When deciding between per diem and travel nursing, it’s important to consider the pros and cons associated with each option.

Per Diem Nursing Pros

  • Flexibility: One of the main benefits of per diem nursing is the flexibility it offers. Per diem nurses can select the assignments that appeal to them the most, allowing them to work when and where they want. This is especially attractive to nurses who prefer not to commit to long-term assignments.
  • Variety: With per diem nursing, nurses can experience a variety of settings and settings, as their assignments can involve a variety of settings within a hospital or health care facility. This allows nurses to gain a broader range of experience than other nurses who focus on just one type of setting.

•Higher Pay: Per diem nurses typically earn higher pay rates than staff nurses. This can make the job more attractive to those who are looking for higher pay or who need to supplement their income.

Per Diem Nursing Cons

  • Shorter Assignments: While some per diem assignments can last up to a year, they are typically shorter than travel nursing assignments. This can make it difficult to gain a consistent paycheck, as per diem nurses have to constantly search for new assignments.
  • Limited Benefits: Per diem nurses are not entitled to the same benefits as staff nurses. This can include benefits such as health insurance and retirement benefits. For those who are looking for a more secure job, this can be a major drawback.

Travel Nursing Pros

  • Longer Assignments: Travel nursing assignments typically last up to 13 weeks, allowing nurses to enjoy consistent paychecks. This is especially attractive to nurses who are looking for more stability in their job.
  • Benefits: Travel nurses are often entitled to benefits such as health insurance, retirement benefits, and travel allowances. This can make the job more attractive to those who are looking for stability and security.
  • Variety: As with per diem nursing, travel nurses can experience a variety of settings and locations. This allows them to broaden their experience and gain a better understanding of nursing in different areas.

Travel Nursing Cons

  • Longer Commitments: While travel nursing offers the advantage of longer-term assignments, it also requires a longer-term commitment. This lack of flexibility can be a downside for some nurses, who may prefer shorter-term assignments.
  • Higher Cost: Travel nursing often involves a higher cost than per diem nursing, due to the costs associated with training and other benefits. This can make the job less attractive to those who are looking to save money.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between per diem and travel nursing?

A: Per diem nursing is when a nurse is hired for short-term assignments, usually lasting up to six months. Travel nursing involves longer assignments, usually lasting up to 13 weeks.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of per diem nursing?

A: The advantages of per diem nursing include flexibility, variety, and higher pay rates. The disadvantages include shorter assignments, limited benefits, and less stability.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of travel nursing?

A: The advantages of travel nursing include longer assignments, benefits such as health insurance, and a variety of settings and locations. The disadvantages include longer-term commitments, higher costs, and less flexibility.

Conclusion

When deciding between per diem and travel nursing, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. With a bit of research and consideration, you should be able to find an option that works best for you.

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