Traveling the world and having a stable career may seem like a pipe dream to many, but for those in the medical field, it's a very real possibility. As a travel EKG tech, you'll have the opportunity to explore new places while still utilizing your skills and experience in the healthcare industry.
EKG, or electrocardiogram, technicians are in high demand, and their skills are transferable to various settings, from hospitals to clinics and private practices. By becoming a travel EKG tech, you'll not only expand your professional horizons but also experience the thrill of exploring new destinations.
What is a Travel EKG Tech?
A travel EKG tech is a medical professional who specializes in conducting electrocardiograms, also known as EKGs or ECGs. EKGs are tests used to measure the electrical activity of the heart, providing valuable information for diagnosing and treating various heart conditions.
As a travel EKG tech, you'll work on a temporary or contract basis in different locations, often filling staffing gaps in healthcare facilities. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a shortage of skilled professionals, an unexpected increase in patient demand, or the need for specialized expertise.
Benefits of Being a Travel EKG Tech
The benefits of being a travel EKG tech are numerous, including:
- Travel opportunities: As a travel EKG tech, you'll have the chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and enjoy the thrill of traveling.
- Variety of assignments: You'll work in various settings, from hospitals to clinics and private practices, which will help you develop a broad range of skills and experiences.
- Competitive pay: Travel EKG techs are often paid more than their permanent counterparts, as they are filling a critical need in the healthcare industry.
- Professional growth: Working in different settings and with various healthcare professionals will help you develop your skills and expertise, making you a more valuable asset to the healthcare industry.
How to Become a Travel EKG Tech
To become a travel EKG tech, you'll need to meet the following requirements:
- Education and training: You'll need to complete an EKG training program, which is usually offered at vocational schools, community colleges, or online.
- Certification: While not always required, certification as an EKG technician can increase your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers the Certified EKG Technician (CET) credential.
- Experience: Many travel EKG tech agencies require at least one year of experience in the field.
- Licensure: Some states may require licensure to practice as an EKG tech.
What to Expect as a Travel EKG Tech
As a travel EKG tech, you can expect:
- Variety of assignments: You'll work in different settings, from hospitals to clinics and private practices, which will help you develop a broad range of skills and experiences.
- Travel opportunities: You'll have the chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and enjoy the thrill of traveling.
- Flexible scheduling: Many travel EKG tech agencies offer flexible scheduling, which can include part-time, full-time, or per-diem opportunities.
- Opportunities for advancement: With experience and certifications, you can advance to leadership roles or specialized positions, such as a stress test technician or a Holter monitor technician.
Travel EKG Tech Salary and Benefits
The salary and benefits for travel EKG techs can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and certifications. However, here are some general salary ranges and benefits:
- Salary: The average salary for a travel EKG tech can range from $60,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
- Benefits: Many travel EKG tech agencies offer benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
- Housing and travel stipends: Some agencies may offer housing and travel stipends to help offset the costs of traveling.
Travel EKG Tech Agencies
There are many travel EKG tech agencies that can help you find assignments and navigate the process of becoming a travel EKG tech. Some of the top agencies include:
- Aya Healthcare: Aya Healthcare is one of the largest travel nurse and allied staffing agencies in the country.
- Medical Staffing Network: Medical Staffing Network is a leading provider of healthcare staffing solutions, including travel EKG techs.
- Staff Care: Staff Care is a travel nurse and allied staffing agency that offers a range of benefits and opportunities for travel EKG techs.
What is the average salary for a travel EKG tech?
+The average salary for a travel EKG tech can range from $60,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
What are the benefits of being a travel EKG tech?
+The benefits of being a travel EKG tech include travel opportunities, competitive pay, professional growth, and flexible scheduling.
How do I become a travel EKG tech?
+To become a travel EKG tech, you'll need to complete an EKG training program, obtain certification, and gain experience in the field. You can also work with a travel EKG tech agency to find assignments.
In conclusion, becoming a travel EKG tech can be a rewarding and exciting career path that offers a unique combination of travel, professional growth, and competitive pay. If you're looking for a career that takes you places, consider becoming a travel EKG tech.