ttt3471
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The nurses in this thread were talking about working "per diem" with agencies. It sounds like you have a travel contract. I currently work with a local agency, I choose from open shifts they have available and am only obligated for the shifts I pick up. The facility can cancel me with 24 hours notice. I have not signed a contract with any the facilities. You need to read your contract; your hours may be guaranteed and you may be responsible for fees for breaking your contract. It should all be in the papers you signed.
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They don't place you; you have to be working at the critical need facility when you apply. I think there's a list of covered areas and types of facilities but they don't have actual hospital and nursing home names on there. It doesn't matter what department you work in but there are specifics on how many hours you work per week (I think it's 32), no more than so many weeks vacation, etc. I don't know if HR departments would all know if they qualify or not; at least in our area it's not that well known that this program is available. I applied 2 years in a row before getting approved. Do make sure you like the facility you're at before committing. The penalties are not good if you default on the committment.
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http://bhpr.hrsa.gov/nursing/loanrepay.htm NELRP is a government loan repayment program for nurses in nursing shortage areas. When I applied 2 years ago all nursing homes [where I work] were considered shortage areas. I think it can vary from year to year; you need to check out the website for more info. If you're selected you have to sign a contract promising to work full-time at your facility for the 2 years. Then you can apply for a 3rd year if you want to-I chose not to because I'm not sure I can make it another year and want to keep my options open.