As a travel nurse, one of the key factors that can significantly impact your overall experience and well-being during an assignment is finding suitable housing. It's essential to strike a balance between proximity to the hospital and living in a safe neighborhood. In this blog, we'll provide you with valuable tips on how to find the best housing close to hospitals while ensuring your safety.
1. Plan Ahead and Research: Start your housing search well in advance of your assignment's start date. Utilize various online resources, such as travel nurse forums, housing websites, and social media groups, to gather information about different neighborhoods near the hospital. Look for areas with low crime rates, good amenities, and positive reviews from previous travel nurses.
2. Seek Housing Assistance from Your Agency: Many travel nursing agencies offer assistance in finding suitable accommodations for their nurses. Reach out to your agency's housing coordinator to discuss your preferences and requirements. They have experience in locating safe and convenient housing options, which can alleviate much of the stress associated with the process.
3. Connect with Fellow Travel Nurses: Tap into your network of fellow travel nurses to gather firsthand insights about their experiences with housing during their assignments in the same area. They can recommend specific neighborhoods or apartment complexes that are close to the hospital while being situated in secure environments.
4. Consider Temporary Corporate Housing: Temporary corporate housing is an excellent option for travel nurses who prefer a turnkey solution. These fully-furnished apartments or condominiums are often located in safe neighborhoods and provide all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Furthermore, they usually have flexible lease terms that align with the duration of your assignment.
5. Evaluate Safety Features: When exploring potential housing options, prioritize safety features. Look for secure access points, well-lit common areas, and functional locks on doors and windows. Consider whether the building or community has security personnel or surveillance systems in place.
6. Use Online Mapping Tools: Utilize online mapping tools to gauge the proximity of the housing options to the hospital and the surrounding neighborhood. Look for ease of access, nearby public transportation options, and distance from essential amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants.
7. Read Reviews and Check Crime Statistics: Before finalizing any housing arrangements, read reviews of the complex or property management company. Additionally, check local crime statistics for the neighborhoods you're considering. Websites like NeighborhoodScout and CrimeReports provide valuable insights into the safety of a specific area.
8. Consult Locals and Hospital Staff: Reach out to locals in the area or hospital staff to get their opinions on which neighborhoods are safest and most convenient for travel nurses. They might provide valuable insights that you wouldn't find through online research.
9. Negotiate Lease Terms: If you're considering private rentals, negotiate lease terms that align with your assignment duration. Many landlords are open to accommodating travel nurses with shorter leases or month-to-month arrangements.
10. Trust Your Instincts: Finally, trust your instincts when choosing housing. If something doesn't feel right or you have concerns about a particular location, don't hesitate to explore other options. Your safety and peace of mind should always be the top priority.
In conclusion, finding the best housing close to hospitals but in safe locations requires thoughtful research, networking, and using the resources available to you. By planning ahead and being proactive, you can secure a comfortable and secure home during your travel nursing assignment, allowing you to focus on providing excellent patient care and enjoying your new surroundings. Happy house hunting and safe travels!