staffing agency for home health

[Kitty Hawk, ADN, RN]

Can anyone briefly describe how this works? I have an interest in home health and have some options right now for an actual facility which is what I would prefer for employment but not sure how the interview etc will be.

I was contacted by a staffing agency for home health. When I applied, I didn't realize it was a staffing agency. They seem really easy compared to other interviews to get started. I told them I wanted to think about it. I figure if nothing pans out in a few weeks it may be good to get some money.

I couldn't really get straight answers though, which puts up red flags. Things like can you get a guarantee of 40 hours a week? Do they offer benefits or no because you're scheduling your time? Can you really pick and choose when you want to work and really can get work based on that? Thanks

[caliotter3]

Typically not guaranteed 40 hours. Client hospitalized, you have no paycheck unless they have "fill-in" work for you. Yes, you can choose your client(s) to a point. If you can't find someone you want to work with on a long-term basis you are stuck. And this is a two way street. Often the client tells the agency they don't want you for any "reason" or no reason at all. Then, you can find yourself on the short end of available assignments due to bias of the staffing coordinator. The managers will never ask staffing coordinators why "Suzie" is not working steadily. As for benefits, very expensive. Must work minimum amount of hours per week. Some agencies allow you to "pay in" to maintain coverage for those times you can't work the minimum. They should have been willing to discuss all of this with you. After all, they could not keep it a secret if you signed on the dotted line. Suggest you look for a more straight-forward agency.