Introduction
Hey there! Welcome to my six-week update as I journey through my travel therapy assignment in the Bay area of California. Time surely flies, and I can’t believe I’m already halfway through. Let me share with you how everything has been going.
Work Setting and Responsibilities
I initially signed up for this assignment to work full-time at a hospital, knowing there might be some floating to outpatient. I’ve started floating to outpatient one day a week, and it might increase in the future. While the clinical aspect of outpatient doesn’t bother me, I’ve been taken aback by the documentation system. It’s quite different from what I was used to in the past, but I’m adapting and learning.
Working in a medium-sized hospital with primary stroke centers has been my norm as a traveling therapist. I handle cases up to a certain level, and patients needing neurosurgery are referred elsewhere. This setup is familiar and comfortable for me, and I enjoy working with the SLP team, especially on the outpatient side with a large caseload.
Extension and Budget Concerns
I’m really enjoying my time in the Bay Area and would love to extend my stay here. I’ve expressed my interest in staying longer to my manager, but it hasn’t been approved yet due to budget constraints. While I hope for an extension, I understand that everything boils down to budget considerations, a common challenge for travelers. If the extension doesn’t come through soon, I’ll start exploring other opportunities to avoid last-minute rushes, especially with finding dog-friendly housing.
Personal Experience and Enjoyment
Despite the rainy weather affecting my outdoor activities like hiking, I’m content with how things are going. The experience has been positive overall, and I’m happy with the work and the environment in the Bay Area. If you want more frequent updates, feel free to follow my Instagram for day-to-day and week-to-week insights.
So, that’s a snapshot of where I am in my travel therapy journey. Stay tuned for more adventures and updates along the way!
Related Questions:
1. How has the transition to working in outpatient been for you?
The transition to working in outpatient has been smooth clinically, but I’ve found the documentation system to be a bit challenging to adapt to.
2. What are your thoughts on the budget constraints affecting your potential extension in the Bay Area?
While I would love to extend my stay in the Bay Area, I understand that budget constraints are a common issue for travelers. I’m hoping for the best outcome but also preparing to explore other options if needed.
3. How do you feel about the work setting at the hospital and with the SLP team?
I have been enjoying my time at the hospital, particularly working with the SLP team. The outpatient caseload is large, but the team dynamics have been positive and supportive.
4. How are you managing the challenges of the rainy weather affecting your outdoor activities?
The rainy weather has impacted my outdoor activities like hiking, but I’m taking it in stride and focusing on other indoor pursuits to stay engaged and positive.
5. What is your strategy for balancing work responsibilities and personal enjoyment during your travel assignment?
Balancing work responsibilities and personal enjoyment is key for me. I make sure to prioritize self-care and exploration of the local area while also fulfilling my work commitments to make the most of my travel experience.