A per diem job at a hospital refers to a type of employment where individuals are hired to work on an “as-needed” basis. The term “per diem” is Latin for “per day,” which aptly describes the nature of this kind of work—employees are typically paid for each day they work, and they don’t have a set schedule or a guaranteed number of hours per week. Here’s what you need to know about per diem jobs in a hospital setting:
Key Characteristics of Per Diem Work
- Flexibility: One of the most significant benefits of per diem work is the flexibility it offers. Workers can often choose shifts that fit their schedules, making it a popular choice for those who need or prefer not to work a traditional full-time schedule. This flexibility can be particularly appealing to students, caregivers, or those pursuing other personal or professional commitments.
- No Set Hours: Per diem employees are not committed to a fixed number of hours or shifts per week. They are typically called in to work when the hospital’s regular staff is insufficient, such as during periods of high patient volume, or when permanent staff are on leave.
- Pay Rates: Per diem workers may receive a higher hourly wage compared to full-time permanent staff, primarily because these positions often do not include benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans.
- Lack of Benefits: As mentioned, one downside is that per diem roles usually lack the benefits that full-time employees enjoy. This includes not only health insurance and paid leave but also job security, as per diem workers can be let go without notice if their services are no longer needed.
- Experience and Skill Building: These positions can provide valuable experience in a hospital setting, offering exposure to different departments and practices. They can be a great way for medical professionals to build their resumes and gain diverse skills.
Common Per Diem Roles in Hospitals
- Nurses: Per diem nursing is one of the most common roles. Nurses may work in various departments, from emergency rooms to pediatrics, based on needs.
- Medical Technicians: Various types of technicians, such as radiology techs or lab technicians, also often work per diem to meet fluctuating hospital demands.
- Therapists: Physical, occupational, and respiratory therapists may work per diem to provide care as needed.
- Administrative Staff: Not all per diem positions are clinical. Hospitals may also hire administrative personnel on a per diem basis for roles like medical coding, billing, or health information management.
Considerations Before Accepting Per Diem Work
- Assess Financial Stability: Because per diem work does not guarantee a steady income, it’s crucial to consider your financial needs and stability before relying solely on this type of employment.
- Evaluate Career Goals: Think about your long-term career goals. Per diem work can offer great flexibility and a variety of experiences, but if you’re looking for steady advancement or regular hours, a full-time position might be better suited to your needs.
Per diem roles in a hospital can be an excellent opportunity for those looking for flexible work schedules and diverse job experiences, though it’s important to weigh the lack of certain benefits and job security. If you are considering per diem work, it’s beneficial to thoroughly understand the specifics of the hospital’s needs and how they match your personal and professional goals.
