800.866.0407
For travel nurses ready to put their skills to the test and their training on display, Missouri offers a wealth of opportunity for professional growth and development. And as one of the participating states in the Nurse Licensure Compact, licensing and preparing to practice in Missouri can be handled with ease.
Missouri is known as the “Show-Me” state. While the exact origin of the state’s nickname is unknown, many endeavor to decipher its meaning. Most explanations center on the idea that for Missourians, one must demonstrate — not simply articulate — the value of something.
United States Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver famously declared, “frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me. I am from Missouri. You have got to show me.”
Read on to learn more about travel nursing in the Show-Me state.
Nurse Licensure Compact status
Missouri is an attractive destination for travel nurses, due to its status as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. The NLC is a multi-state nursing license that allows nurses to practice in participating states without having to apply for a new license each time. The multistate license makes practicing across state borders more affordable and convenient, and helps remove the cumbersome expenses and paperwork involved in securing multiple licenses.
Involved and engaged healthcare professionals
Missouri is home to nearly 160 hospitals and healthcare institutions, two of which are nationally ranked in 16 specialties by U.S. News & World Report. An additional nine institutions, 15 specialties, and 59 procedures/conditions are high-performing, according to the ranking.
Missouri’s healthcare community — perhaps emboldened by the state’s motto to show and do, not just say — has many active healthcare advocacy and grassroots organizations with which nurses may consider getting involved. The missions of these organizations range from improving access to care and increasing patient understanding, to effecting policy change and influencing health issues from a systemic perspective.
Cost of living
Cost of living in Missouri is well below the national average, which means your hard-earned dollar can go further here. Housing costs contribute most significantly to the margin, at just 73 percent of the national average. Transportation, grocery, and healthcare costs are also lower in Missouri than averages nationwide.
Sites, sports, and social scene
The Show-Me state also boasts plenty of its own interesting sites to “show” locals and visitors alike. From national landmarks to state parks, Missouri offers a broad range of recreational and leisure activities.
One of the state’s most recognizable landmarks is the Gateway Arch in Saint Louis. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, the arch was built as a monument to the nation’s westward expansion. Other popular destinations include author Mark Twain’s boyhood home, the National WWI museum and memorial, and the National Blues Museum.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Table Rock State Park and Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offer everything from biking, boating, and fishing to hiking, campsites, yurts, and picnic areas. The parks are located just outside Branson, Missouri, an Ozark town and popular family tourist destination.
For nightlife and dining, St. Louis boasts a burgeoning craft brewery and restaurant scene. Grab a bite with friends or enjoy a game with one of state’s MLB, NFL, MLS, or NHL teams.
Consider a travel assignment in Missouri
There are many factors to consider when choosing a travel nursing assignment. For ease of licensing, engaged healthcare professionals, cost of living, and a variety of recreational pursuits, Missouri is a strong candidate to consider on your list of prospective assignments.
For more information about travel nursing, to speak with a recruiter, or to learn more about potential assignments in Missouri, please give us a call at 800.866.0407.
