ABOUT PER DIEM - getting started

At MedStaff, we know the difference is in the details. That’s why we make sure we can offer you all the necessary information you need to get your per diem career started. After you have returned your application and skills checklist, you will need to complete the following list of items in order to secure an assignment.

1. licensing requirements
In order be employed by MedStaff, you will need to obtain a license to practice in each state in which you will be assigned to work. Licenses must be active and in good standing. Below you will find links to many of the applicable licensure boards:

Licensing and Helpful Links
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing
American Heart Association
American Red Cross
Cardiovascular Credentialing International
Housing/Additional Resources
National Board for Respiratory Care
Nursing Boards by State

Processing the licensure application will vary from state to state. Some may take up to eight (8) weeks. Therefore, it is very important that you apply immediately upon assignment acceptance.

2. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Each facility has established its own physical requirements. MedStaff is obligated to comply within each facility’s guidelines. As a result, we have established our own minimum requirements. The following are examples of ways in which we verify your qualification:

Physical Examination
An annual physical examination by a doctor or nurse practitioner is performed to verify that you are both physically and mentally free from communicable disease and able to function at full capacity without limitations. Included in this exam is verification that the employee can safely lift twenty-five (25) pounds.

Tests:

• PPD - Annual analysis - MedStaff will stipulate if the test needs to be a one step or two step. If the PPD converts to positive, a chest x-ray must be obtained to verify possible disease activity. Once a PPD is positive, no more are required. Instead, an annual symptom questionnaire is performed. Some facilities require repeat chest x-rays.
• Hepatitis Series - Proof of immunization is required. Sometimes titres are required to confirm immunity. You are required to sign a form indicating whether you chose not to receive the series of immunization, have never had them and are interested in learning more about them, or have had the series of immunizations.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella - You must show evidence of disease, immunizations, or positive titres. Exact requirements are dependent upon each individual facility.

3. COMPETENCY TESTING
As part of the screening process, each healthcare professional is required to take a clinical competency test prior to starting an assignment. The required test is focused on the clinical specialty in which the healthcare professional desires to work. The MedStaff testing is performed securely online. Competency testing is updated periodically. In addition to specialty competency testing, the healthcare professional is also required to take Mandatory Education that reflects regulatory agency requirements. Mandatory Education updating is required annually. The healthcare professional may be required to take facility specific testing prior to starting an assignment. The professional will be notified prior to starting an assignment if additional testing requirements exist.

4. DRUG SCREENS
Negative results from a ten (10) panel urine drug screen are required prior to starting as a MedStaff employee. For your convenience, we have contracted with Quest Diagnostics, a nationwide laboratory service whose services you may utilize. Your Branch Staff will provide you with a special requisition to complete the study. If you need help locating a collection site, please contact your Branch Staff, or click here to find the location nearest you by using Quest’s website.

5. BACKGROUND CHECKS
Many facilities require various types of criminal history checks prior to working. Your Branch Staff will inform you of the process you are to follow should one be required. As a standard practice, MedStaff screens your professional license and social security number for criminal activity.