1. Understand Why Contracts Fall Through
Before panicking, it's important to understand why your contract might be canceled:
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Facility Budget Cuts: Sometimes a hospital faces internal budgetary changes and cuts back on travelers.
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Overstaffing: Patient census drops, and suddenly your services aren’t needed.
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Credentialing or Licensing Delays: Missed deadlines or errors in paperwork can delay or void your start date.
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Agency Issues: Some staffing agencies may overpromise placements or miscommunicate with facilities.
2. Check Your Contract Terms
Your first step should be reviewing your contract:
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Cancellation Clause: Many contracts include a notice period (e.g., 2 weeks) or penalties for early termination.
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Guaranteed Hours: If you’ve started the contract, guaranteed hours may still entitle you to pay.
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Reimbursement Protections: Are you covered for travel, housing deposits, or licensing fees?
A reputable agency will clarify these terms and often have your back in these situations.
3. Communicate with Your Recruiter Immediately
A good recruiter is your advocate. They can:
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Help you understand the cancellation reason
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Provide documentation if you need to show proof to landlords or travel reimbursement programs
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Find you a backup assignment quickly
Tip: Agencies with multiple contracts nationwide can often reassign you faster.
4. Protect Yourself for the Future
You can’t prevent every cancellation, but you can prepare:
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Choose Reputable Agencies: Look for ones with strong hospital relationships and good traveler reviews.
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Ask About Cancelation Frequency: Some agencies can tell you which facilities frequently cancel contracts.
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Build a Financial Cushion: Plan for gaps between contracts, even if just a few weeks’ worth.