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Hey Nurse Turbo, I decided against the travel corps, I did send them my application and a ton of paperwork they wanted and was scheduled for an interview but had some personal issues at the time so didn't interview, it did take a couple of months before I heard anything. Instead I decided to take a permanent position in Pueblo, CO at the VA Community Living Center (used to be called a nursing home) which has mostly long term psych patients. I trained in Denver for a week, older hospital, very nice people though. Most people in Colorado are nice, must be in the water, lol. I think the new hospital will be finished in 2014, they've just started building it. It sounds like it's going to be really nice though. The parking in Denver is horrendous, as I guess most big cities are. I did meet the VISN chief, she dropped by the CLC one evening, very nice, very approachable. Like I said most of the VA staff I have met have been great. I love Colorado, I came from Tennessee, so big difference. There's lots here, mountains, deserts and everything in between. Lots to do in Denver of course, headed up there tomorrow to spend a day and go to the Botanical Gardens for their Christmas lights then we are headed to Loveland, CO for a retreat. Pueblo is an older town, not too big, not too small and very cheap to live here and again great people. We had a bit of a blizzard today, not a lot of snow but lots of wind to blow it around, down in the single digits tonight then back up in the 50's by Friday. Hope I've helped a bit. If I can help out any more let me know. I have been working with an RN who works with the corps as a psych nurse, he likes it, has been here for 3 tours and is getting ready to head to Gainsville, FL. Sharon, don't get too discouraged the VA is notorious for for taking months before you get called for an interview and then more months to actually start the job. I've worked for them for 22 years and my transfer took about 6 months. Not sure why it takes them so long other than thorough background checks, finger printing etc. But I like it, I don't think I could ever go back to private hospitals. They really have been good to me over the years and I love working with the vets.

Thanks. Even though I have worked with the VA for over 20 years I still can't figure out all their stuff.

One more thing, what does it mean by "direct hire"?

Thanks for the reply. I have applied for a position at the Shiprock Hospital. I've heard nothing but good things about it. Still not sure about the Gallup hospital and area. I was an ICU nurse for years but have been working hospice/rehab/longterm care for the last few years. I don't want to get into a big ICU but wouldn't mind a small one. I did also apply at the VA in Albuquerque for a hospice position, have you been there?

Christy, I am an experienced RN (22yrs) and am looking into the IHS. Gallup, NM has lots of openings showing on their site. Where did you work? What was it like? I have worked at a local VA most of my career and hope to keep my benifits and retirement if I go to work for IHS. Would love to hear from you.

Thanks Tango, definitely worth looking into.

Hey Dorie, I too am thinking of traveling. I will be turning 50 this year and my husband 60. We have both just gotten over some health issues and want to travel while we can. We planned to do it several years ago but our health and our son who has chronic health issues has prevented it. We did buy a motorhome and have lived in it locally for 3 years but am itching to get on the road. RNERHOUSESUPOR, have you had any trouble finding campgrounds close enough to work? How are the jobs out there. I am concerned also about being without work for extended periods, still paying for this "home" on wheels.

Travelnurse2, I would like more info on VA Travel Nurse Corps. I have had difficulty finding anyone who had actually worked for them. I am considering applying as I have worked at a local VA for several years. I tried to private message you but I have not been active on this site long enough to do that. Feel free to contact me if possible.

The VA has their own travel nurse corps. I have worked at a local VA and just sent in my application for traving with them. I am hoping to connect with others who are already using them but will update here as I go through the process. My biggest concern is availability of jobs. Wish me luck.

Thanks for the reply. I'm new to this site so not sure how to private message you. I've been working at the local VA for 20 years but unfortunately too young to retire but want to travel. When they told me I could keep my insurance I decided this might be the best thing for me. Did you keep your insurance? You are welcome to email me at [email protected]. Thanks again. Kat

Eva, I am currently looking into joining the VA Travel Nurse Corps. How long have you been with them? Any comments or suggestions would greatly be appreciated or if you know of any others working for them I could contact. Thanks, Kat