Do hospitals prefer written or verbal references?

[Djuna]

i am hoping to work in the us some time this year and i'm wondering whether us hospitals prefer written references from former employers or verbal ones.

here in australia most prospective employers will email or telephone the referee you have nominated.

what have other rns experienced when applying for a new job in the us?

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

i prefer phone reference so can verify information presented to me.