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Friday, July 20, 2007

What to Ask When Negotiating Your Physical Therapy Salary and Benefits Package
Apr 1, 2007
By: Lisa Lapina
Healthcare Traveler



Negotiating the right contract is an important part of securing an assignment that fits your needs. When discussing your benefits package with your recruiter, it is important to examine your priorities. Maybe you would be happiest with a package that provides the most complete health coverage available. Then again, if you have thorough insurance through your partner's policy, you may prefer to trade a greater selection of benefits for a higher pay rate. To determine what is best for you, think about the overall package and how it will affect your lifestyle.

Salary

Finance matters, and how much money ends up in your hands should ultimately help you decide which contracts to accept. You should be sure to ask the following important questions: Will I get guaranteed hours? If so, will they be paid upon assignment completion? Will I receive shift differentials for working shifts more difficult to fill? Will I collect a completion bonus? Can I get direct deposit, or do I need to open a local bank account (and possibly wait days for my paychecks to clear)?

Health insurance

A company's health insurance options should also be a key consideration. Are you eligible for short-term, comprehensive group, preventative dental, life, dependant health, or a combination of coverages? Would you have to pay for your insurance? If so, is it available from the first day of your assignment or will there be a waiting period? What is the deductible and co-pay? Should you forego coverage, would you be offered a fixed benefit payment each month? If health insurance is one of your main concerns, a great plan could make a particular staffing company more attractive.

Medical malpractice insurance

Protecting yourself against medical malpractice is crucial. Would you be offered this benefit? And if so, would you have out-of-pocket costs or would the travel company absorb such expenses?

Housing

Living arrangements should also play an integral role in the negotiation process. Is private housing offered or would you have to share an apartment with another traveler? Would you be required to pay for your accommodations? Who would be responsible for utilities and additional fees—like a pet security deposit—the company or you? If you do not wish to take the offered accommodations, would you receive a housing subsidy? Other issues relating to where you'd be living must be determined as well, such as travel reimbursement and parking.

Continuing education

In the healthcare industry, staying on top of your game is essential to career success. Your education is imperative, which is why you should inquire about continuing education (CE) opportunities. Would conferences, seminars, and classes be available while you're on assignment? If so, would the costs be covered or reimbursed? Could you complete CE requirements online?

401(k) plan

If saving for the future is high on your list of priorities, a 401(k) plan is a fundamental factor in your decision-making process. Would this benefit be provided to you? If so, what is the waiting period? Would the staffing agency offer a percentage match to increase your contributions?

Customer service and clinical support

Last, but certainly not least, is accessible support from the staffing agency. Would your recruiter be accessible? Could you get the answers you want when you need them? Are clinical support and 24/7 services offered? Would the company help to manage your credentials, remind you of expiration dates, and follow up to assure compliance is met?

The bottom line—know before you go. Be aware of your preferences at the beginning of your assignment search, and don't be afraid to speak up and ask for something that may not be listed. These practices will guarantee you're moving in the right direction and focusing your energy on signing with a staffing agency that will truly meet your needs.

http://www.healthcaretraveler.com/healthcaretraveler/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=415493

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