Job flexibility and work-life balance have never been more desirable and obtainable than now. It's all thanks to the proliferation of smartphones, the popularity of app stores, and ongoing technological advancements. Nurses especially have it good with the advent of nursing job apps in recent years.
Whether you're a CNA, LPN, or RN, nursing job apps literally put the power to choose when and where you work in the palm of your hand. Yet, given the various options available, how do you know what's the best nursing jobs app for you?
First off, if you need clarification on what a nursing jobs app is, it’s an app that connects credentialed nurses with hospitals and healthcare facilities needing to fill scheduling gaps on a short-term, long-term, or permanent basis.
Where do you find these apps? Nursing jobs apps are available for iPhones and Androids, and you can download them from the App Store and Google Play store, respectively.
Nursing App Comparison
Choosing the right app for nursing career flexibility can be challenging. When you start researching different options, you'll find many of these nurse-friendly apps operate similarly and market the same value propositions.
The devil is in the details, so to speak. Because your needs, wants, and qualifications differ from those of other nurses, doing a nursing app comparison is essential to find the best option for you. For instance, you'll want to evaluate aspects such as:
Onboarding Process
Nursing job apps typically require you to complete an onboarding process to verify you have the proper credentials and experience for professional practice. While you don’t want to use an app that takes onboarding shortcuts, you want one that makes the process as seamless and supportive as possible.
Profile Creation
Ensure the app makes it easy for you to create a detailed professional profile that showcases all of your credentials, giving you access to as many shift opportunities as possible.
User-Friendly Interface
Look for apps with an intuitive, user-friendly interface. You want a well-designed app that makes it easy to find and claim relevant shifts, manage your work schedule, and update your credentials.
Filtering Option
Determine if the app allows you to filter shifts based on your license type, specialty certification, work preferences, etc. This level of functionality will save you time in finding the most relevant opportunities.
Alerts and Notifications
Look for apps that offer customizable alerts and notifications so you can stay updated on new shift postings that match your criteria.
User Support
Choose an app that provides reliable, responsive support because you never know when you might encounter an issue or have a question.
Pay Frequency
If you want to manage your cash flow more effectively or like the security of taking care of unexpected financial obligations, look for nursing job apps that pay daily.
Benefits and Perks
Consider apps that provide access to comprehensive healthcare coverage for you and your dependents. It also doesn't hurt when they offer special perks to high performers.
Shift Opportunities
Choose an app that provides an extensive array of local shift possibilities tailored to your qualifications and criteria by ensuring they partner with various healthcare facilities in your area.
Reviews and Ratings
By looking at app reviews and ratings, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge to help with your decision-making, including first-hand accounts of a nursing job platform’s strengths and weaknesses.
Security and Privacy
Ensure the app prioritizes the security and privacy of your personal information and complies with relevant data protection regulations.
Be Aware of Gig Nursing
Gig nurses are sometimes independent contractors employed directly by a healthcare facility instead of a staffing agency or nursing jobs app. While these gig nurses can work when and where they want, they're not W-2 employees, so they're not eligible for company benefits. They also don't have access to overtime pay protection, workers' compensation, or unemployment insurance.
Furthermore, healthcare facilities sometimes use staffing agencies or nursing jobs apps that misclassify per diem nurses as independent contractors, which recently caught the U.S. Department of Labor's (DoL) attention.
By cracking down on facilities that misuse the 1099 classification, the DoL is taking a critical step in safeguarding the rights of healthcare professionals and, by extension, the health and safety of patients. This regulatory action emphasizes the importance of fair labor practices within the healthcare industry, ensuring that those who provide essential services get the protection and benefits they deserve.
Because they involve per diem work, nursing job apps are sometimes called gig nursing apps. So, make sure the app you’re considering classifies its nurses as W-2 employees, not 1099 contractors.
Pros and Cons of Nursing Job Apps
Like most things, working shifts through a nursing jobs app has advantages and disadvantages. You must weigh these pros and cons based on your preferences, priorities, and career goals. Here are some of the most common pros and cons:
Pros
You have access to diverse job opportunities right at your fingertips.
You have control of your schedule, working when and where you want.
You don't have to deal with mandatory weekends, holidays, or overtime.
You can get to know some potential healthcare employers in your area.
Cons
You're competing with other nurses for available shifts.
You run the risk of last-minute shift cancellations.
You may encounter technical glitches when using these apps.
You could experience an ebb and flow of shift postings.
ShiftMed Advantages
Now that you know what to look for when comparing nursing job apps, we'll make the process easier by listing all the advantages of working with ShiftMed below.
“ShiftMed has made working as a nurse easier.” —Rosa T., ShiftMed Nurse
Our nursing jobs app offers flexible nursing shifts to Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), and Registered Nurses (RNs) nationwide. In some states, we have specialty shifts for CNAs, LPNs, and RNs that range from behavioral health to labor and delivery to intensive care.
ShiftMed currently has nurses working in 30 states, and we're always adding healthcare partners to our roster. So, if your state isn't on our list, it won't be that way for much longer.
“I love the flexibility and the ability to create my own schedule with ShiftMed.” —Stevens Desvallons, ShiftMed Nurse
Seamless Onboarding Process
We believe in a seamless and supportive onboarding experience that prioritizes your success and sets the stage for a fulfilling career. Once you download the ShiftMed app to your iPhone or Android, our user-friendly app interface guides you through the necessary steps, simplifying the submission of your credentials.
“Onboarding was fast and easy. Someone was always available to help.” —Brianna M., ShiftMed Nurse
How long does it take to complete our onboarding process? Much depends on you and the state that licenses you to practice. Every state has different regulatory requirements—with some having you complete more steps than others. So, the faster you can upload your credentials, the quicker we can verify them.
My Credentials Profile
The My Credentials section of our app is a dynamic narrative of your professional story. Whenever you earn a new credential, such as a specialty certification, you can easily upload the information for us to verify. And the more credentials you have, the more shift opportunities will be available to you.
User-Friendly Nursing Job Platform
Our app makes building the perfect work schedule for your life super easy. And we’re constantly adding new features and functions to elevate your shift-claiming experience. Here's just a taste of what you can expect:
“I enjoy working with ShiftMed because of how quickly I can pick up shifts. I hit one button and the shift is mine.” —Anita H., ShiftMed CNA
Filter Function
Our filter function is your trusty sidekick in the world of shift selection! With just a few taps, you can curate a selection of shifts that match your criteria. Filter by license, day, time, location, and more!
Rebooking Feature
If your shift gets cancelled, our system automatically starts looking for a replacement shift(s) to keep your schedule on track.
Personalized Shift Suggestions
Like streaming services suggest movies and shows based on your viewing history, ShiftAdvisor℠ analyzes your work behavior in the app to curate a list of shifts likely to match your preferences. These shifts are carefully selected to maximize your satisfaction and work-life balance.
Low Cancel Rate Facilities
Our Low Cancel Rate badge shows up next to facilities that rarely cancel shifts on our nurses. Tied to our filter function, you can curate a feed of shifts that align with your reliability expectations. Think of it as a shortcut to a work experience that values your commitment and professionalism.
“What I enjoy about ShiftMed is the easy scheduling and low cancellations.” —Nicole Z., ShiftMed Nurse
Exclusive Guaranteed Shifts®
Unlike other nursing jobs apps, we rewrite the script for per diem nurses by offering Guaranteed Shifts—an exclusive perk that liberates you from unpredictability. When you see a guaranteed badge on a shift card, it means that the facility will pay you for the entire shift if they cancel or send you home early. These shifts are also an option in our filter function.
Double-Shifts Feature
If working double shifts is your jam, this feature saves you time and energy trying to identify such opportunities. When you claim a single shift at a facility, our system automatically searches for a qualifying second shift at that location, including shifts with a 30-minute overlap.
Shift Reminders
Our app helps keep you punctual through a series of friendly reminders. You'll receive a reminder notification 12 hours, 6 hours, and 1 hour before the start of your shift.
Want tips on how to manage your shifts like a boss? Check out this interactive app experience.
ShiftMed Cares™
We aim to improve your life by putting your needs front and center. We give you the power to choose when, where, and how often you work while providing the necessary resources to succeed.
“ShiftMed is an excellent company that cares about employees.” —Francesca M., ShiftMed Nurse
W-2 Employment
As a W-2 employee, you're not just earning a living; you're maximizing your benefits and minimizing the complexities of being a 1099 independent contractor.
ShiftMed Instant Pay™
You don't make patients wait for care. So, we don't make you wait for your pay. Our Instant Pay app feature makes cashing in on your hard work easy. After clocking out of a shift, you can request up to 75% of your pre-tax earnings.
“I can claim a shift, work, and get paid all in the same day. ShiftMed is easy and convenient.” —Sydney A., ShiftMed Nurse
ShiftMed Platinum Rewards
Our loyalty program incentivizes you to show up and show out. That’s right, we reward you big time for showing up for shifts—so the higher your show rate, the better your shift-claiming experience gets.
Healthcare Benefits
After working just one shift, you and your family can access quality, affordable healthcare coverage through Hooray Health. Plan offerings include medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, and life insurance options.
“I love working with ShiftMed. As a single mom, I have the flexibility I need to provide for my son.” —Nicole J., ShiftMed CNA
Uber Health Rides
Never again do you have to worry about transportation issues getting in the way of the work you love. You can request discounted Uber Health rides to and from your shifts directly in our app.
Career Advancement Opportunities
When you work with ShiftMed, you receive discounted pricing on select degree and certificate programs available through OpusVi.
User Support
Our phone assistance connects you with knowledgeable experts who understand your unique challenges and are ready to guide you through any situation. Engage in real-time chat support for instant solutions and a sense of immediate connection. Additionally, our comprehensive help center articles serve as a valuable resource, offering in-depth insights and practical advice at your fingertips.
“ShiftMed support is great! They provide timely responses and genuine help.” —Shoshana I., ShiftMed Nurse
Real stories, real vibes, real satisfaction—check out this interactive experience to see what nurses are saying about working with ShiftMed.
Conclusion
In this era where job flexibility and work-life balance are coveted assets, the best nursing job app is the one that aligns seamlessly with your individual needs. So, as you embark on this digital journey, find an app that not only places the power to choose in your hands but also propels you toward a fulfilling and rewarding nursing career.
Download the ShiftMed app today!