Gypsy,
Is it common for the agency to request monetary repayment for missed shifts? I’ve worked on two assignments, and this has never been part of my contracts before.
Thank you,
Anonymous RN
Thank you for reading The Gypsy Nurse. You have taken the first step on your journey to becoming A Gypsy Nurse.
It is common in this industry. I’ve worked for multiple agencies over the past 8 years of Travel Nursing, and only two did not have a dollar amount for missed shifts in their contracts. One used to allow two missed shifts per contract, but too many of their travelers abused it, so they no longer do.
The penalties are to cover housing costs. If you don’t work, the agency doesn’t get paid, but they must still pay for housing. The penalties should approximately equal the cost of housing.
Example: housing is $1200/month. The contract is for 36/hrs a week, 144 hours a month. $1200 divided by 144 = 8.30/hour. If the penalty seems excessively high, ask what housing costs are. If the agency has not secured specific housing yet, they may not have an exact figure, but they should have a general idea.
I had one contract in a smallish city, and the hourly missed shift penalty was equal to the housing costing the agency nearly $3000/month. I knew there was no way they would spend that amount and refused to accept it. They lowered it to a more realistic figure.
I love hearing the opinions of my readers. Your opinion could be the perfect solution for someone. Please share your thoughts below in the comments. Do you have a question for me? Fill out the Ask A Travel Nurse form and submit your questions.
(Disclaimer: Please note that this is the Authors opinion only. I do not provide career counseling, legal or medical consults. If you require any of these, please search out the appropriate resources)
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