Why can't I "be my own" agency?

[adot99]

So, I started working for an agency about four months ago. Yes, it's frustrating to get cancelled. But aside from that, I love the work. The variety and flexibility of the job is fabulous. I'm only oriented to one hospital at this point, but that's working so far.

With that said, the woman I work for at the agency is irritating on a good day. I just dread seeing her name pop up in my email. Have considered switching agencies, and still might. But, it occurs to me that switching agencies just means someone else gets to make several hundred dollars every shift I work for doing not very much.

At this point, I don't want to actually start an agency and hire other nurses, etc. I'd just like to eliminate the middle man for myself. I have enough of a business background that the business side doesn't scare me.

Given that this is not something you see people do, I'm sure there's a problem with this idea. I'm just hoping someone could tell me what it is. :)

Thanks!

[79Tango]

Its actually fairly easy to be your own "Agency" the problems come from a few different areas.

1) Finding & Negotiating your contracts & work (hard part)

2)Working periods with 0 $$ coming in(hospitals pay late, typically monthly)

3)Admin Stuff (MalPractice Ins, Taxes, Accting)

[MunoRN, RN]

Until the union put a stop to it, quite a few Nurses at the hospital I work at were essentially their own agency, they basically set up their own staffing companies with themselves as the only employee, the purpose of this was that by doing this they could negotiate their pay and benefits outside of the union contract, which meant better pay and benefits. They had to get a business license ($100) and malpractice insurance, which is actually pretty cheap, submit an extra tax form, and buy their own health insurance, although they still ended up making a lot more even after buying their own health insurance plan.

[caliotter3]

The problem is that employers are not willing to deal with the individual rather than an established agency. Doesn't mean you can't try the idea.