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Florida’s renowned beaches, cuisine, nightlife and entertainment are known the world over. For healthcare professionals, the Sunshine State also offers a dynamic and diverse environment for practicing medicine and represents an area of high need — in particular, for acute and long-term care. For travel nurses seeking sunny climes and vibrant natural and cultural offerings, here are four reasons to consider South Florida.
1. It’s a Nurse Licensure Compact member state
One of the most compelling reasons to consider travel nursing jobs in Florida is the state’s participation in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). A multistate license through the NLC allows nurses to practice in participating states without having to apply for a new license each time. It makes practicing across state lines more affordable and convenient, and helps remove the cumbersome expenses and paperwork involved in securing multiple licenses. If you qualify for a multistate license through the NLC, taking a travel nurse assignment in South Florida is easier than ever!
2. Nurses are in high demand in South Florida
Florida is one of the top employers for nurses nationwide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Florida ranks third for the highest employment of nurses by state, with more than 180,000 nurses employed in the state.
As a popular destination for retirees, Florida’s population is aging and will continue to contribute to a greater demand for acute and long-term care through home health agencies and skilled nursing facilities.
Like many parts of the nation, South Florida faces a shortage of nurses — due to population growth and nurses retiring or leaving the workforce. The Florida Hospital Association recently said there would be a shortage of 59,000 nurses statewide by 2035 unless conditions improve.
Of Florida’s 252 hospitals, 35 earned high marks on U.S. News and World Report’s annual ranking of hospitals. More than 20 South Florida hospitals appear on the list, including Cleveland Clinic Weston, which is nationally ranked in one specialty and high performing in 17 specialties, procedures, and conditions.
3. It boasts some of the best places to live
Many South Florida cities and towns grace U.S. News and World Report’s 2021-2022 list of Best Places to Live, including the southwestern coastal city of Naples, which boasts the number seven spot. Nestled between the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is home to pristine beaches and world class shopping and dining.
Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach also scored in the top quintile of the Sharecare Community Well-Being Index, an annual ranking and analysis of individual health factors and social determinants of health.
While cost of living in South Florida is higher than the national average (due in large part to higher grocery, housing, and transportation costs), Florida is one of nine states without personal income tax, which can translate to higher take-home pay.
4. It has endless opportunity for adventure
South Florida is an attractive destination for vacationers and travel nurses alike. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, arts and culture enthusiast, beachgoer, or foodie, South Florida has attractions and sites to check off nearly every wish list.
South Florida has three National Parks, including the protected habitat of the Everglades, coral reefs and marine life of Dry Tortugas, and emerald islands of Biscayne. With hundreds of miles of coastline, including the Florida Keys and National Seashores, the region is a mecca for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and diving.
Miami’s Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and Palm Beach’s Flagler Museum are National Historic Landmarks that welcome art and architecture aficionados to enjoy art collections, programs, gardens, and history.
South Florida is home to peoples of many origins and nationalities, most notably refugees from nearby Cuba. South Florida’s heavy Latin and Caribbean influences are felt throughout the region – from art and music to entertainment and cuisine. Dining in the Sunshine State offers nearly everything under the sun – from fish shacks and key lime pies to food festivals and specialty cuisine.
Sports fans and nightlife lovers have plenty to keep their calendars booked. With local MLB, NBA, and NFL teams and the area’s many clubs, concert venues, and theaters, there is something here for everyone.
Interested in learning more about travel nursing jobs in South Florida? Give us a call at 800.866.0407 or view today’s travel nurse jobs in Florida.
