Why Per Diem Nursing and Allied Health Jobs Are Ideal for Working Parents

Balancing a demanding career in healthcare with the responsibilities of parenthood can be challenging. However, per diem nursing and allied health positions offer a flexible and rewarding solution.

Flexibility in Scheduling

One of the most significant advantages of per diem work is the flexibility it provides:

• Control Over Work Hours: Per diem nurses and allied health professionals can choose when they want to work, allowing them to schedule shifts around family commitments, school events, and other important activities.
• Variety of Shifts: Hospitals and clinics often offer a range of shifts, including days, nights, weekends and holidays. This variety allows working parents to find shifts that best fit their family’s needs.
• Ability to Adjust Workload: Parents can decide to take on more shifts during less busy family periods or reduce their workload during times when family demands are higher. This can even occur on a weekly basis.

Higher Earning Potential

Per diem positions sometimes come with higher hourly rates compared to full-time positions:

• Increased Hourly Pay: Due to the as-needed nature of per diem work, employers may offer higher hourly wages to attract qualified professionals. This can result in better compensation for fewer hours worked, allowing parents to maximize their earnings while spending more time with their families.
• Opportunity for Overtime: Many healthcare facilities offer overtime pay for per diem workers willing to take on additional shifts, providing an opportunity to earn extra income when needed.

Reduced Long-Term Commitment

Per diem roles typically do not require long-term commitments:

• No Obligation to Maintain a Set Schedule: Unlike full-time positions that often come with strict scheduling requirements, per diem roles allow healthcare professionals to take breaks when needed without the pressure of maintaining a regular schedule.
• Easier to Transition Between Jobs: Per diem work provides the flexibility to explore different healthcare settings and specialties without the need for long-term contracts, making it easier to find the best fit for personal and family needs.

Gaining Diverse Experience

Per diem work offers the opportunity to gain experience in various healthcare settings:

• Exposure to Different Specialties: Working in different departments or facilities can enhance skills and knowledge, making healthcare professionals more versatile and marketable.
• Networking Opportunities: Per diem workers often meet and collaborate with a wide range of healthcare professionals, building valuable connections that can lead to future job opportunities and career advancement.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance

Balancing work and family life is crucial for overall well-being:

• More Quality Family Time: The ability to choose shifts allows parents to be present for important family moments, such as school activities, sports events and family vacations.
• Reduced Burnout: Flexibility in scheduling and the ability to take breaks can help reduce the risk of burnout, leading to a healthier work-life balance and improved job satisfaction.

Benefits and Professional Growth

While per diem positions might not always offer traditional benefits, there are still significant advantages:

• Access to Continuing Education: Many healthcare facilities provide access to training and professional development opportunities for per diem staff, ensuring they stay current with industry standards and advancements.
• Health Benefits: Some per diem roles offer health benefits and retirement plans, especially for those who work a certain number of hours per month.

Per diem nursing and allied health positions provide an ideal solution for working parents who need flexibility and control over their schedules. If you’re a working parent in the healthcare field, consider exploring per diem opportunities to find the perfect balance between your professional and personal life. Cross Country MSN is Cross Country’s Per Diem/Local staffing division and has local opportunities nationwide. Learn more here.