Applying for jobs long distance

[floatRN]

Does anyone have any advice on searching for a job in another state? I'm talking half a day travel by plane. Will hospitals do at least an initial interview over the phone? If a hospital were to call to say they were interested to have me come for an interview, would it be acceptable to say I couldn't make the trip for 3-4 weeks, this would give me time to arrange a couple days off from work and possibly schedule more than one interview in the same trip. I would appreciate any advice on long distance moves and job searches-I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. Thank you!

[Snugglibumkins]

I have a military husband -so I am always applying for positions that are multiple time zones away. Usually I contact HR and ask about the preference for my resume (fax, electronic resume on hospital website, mail to unit manager, etc). At the time of my initial contact, I mention that I am available for a preliminary telephone interview.

I would hate to spend the money to visit a hospital, only to not like it during the interview and be out that money. So I try to get a feel for the place over the phone before setting up an in-person interview.