Canceling a contract

[silveryscrape]

Hello, all.

I'm 5 weeks into a 13 week contract in San Francisco, and have come across a fantastic opportunity to go staff in the same facility on a different unit (an outpt clinic, actually). What would be the consequences if I cancel my contract in order to be hired in a different area of the facility like this? I will certainly look at my contract and talk to my recruiter before I do anything (I travel w/ Cross Country), I just want to hear from anyone who may have a first-hand idea of how this works.

Thanks!

[bagladyrn, RN]

Hello, all.

I'm 5 weeks into a 13 week contract in San Francisco, and have come across a fantastic opportunity to go staff in the same facility on a different unit (an outpt clinic, actually). What would be the consequences if I cancel my contract in order to be hired in a different area of the facility like this? I will certainly look at my contract and talk to my recruiter before I do anything (I travel w/ Cross Country), I just want to hear from anyone who may have a first-hand idea of how this works.

Thanks!

You will most likely owe the company for the remaining costs of your housing (rent, utilities, furniture rental costs) for the remaining length of your contract. You may also note a couple of clauses in your contract - one which details how much you will owe them for each missed shift and the other which states (in the 'handbook" which it states is part of the contract) that any extension or permanent position at this facility will be facilitated through Cross Country. Now this clause may or may not be enforceable, but could cause major headaches for you and the facility and could lead them to decide that one new employee wasn't worth the battle with CCTC, especially if they have multiple contracts with CCTC.

You will likely find it much easier to deal with CCTC if you do the honorable thing and finish the contract to which you agreed. If the facility is that interested in you they will understand your obligation and work with you. I think they may not look favorably on someone who dumped on their contract with another area of their own facility - doesn't make you look very reliable.

I'm sure this isn't the kind of answer you are hoping for, but it's honest feedback.

[silveryscrape]

Actually I'm sure you're right, esp. about the reliability thing, and as I'm someone who has trouble calling in sick even when I am (guilt), I guess what I'll have to do is discuss the needs of my current contract with my possible new employer, see if something can be worked out.

Thanks for the much needed perspective.

[bagladyrn, RN]

Perhaps if you discuss it with them you could start doing a shift a week on your desired unit to orient and learn the new position while finishing out your contract.

Good luck!