For years, the traditional PRN staffing agency model dominated per diem healthcare work. But since 2016, ShiftKey has given healthcare professionals and facilities a new way to connect — without intermediaries. ShiftKey is not an agency. It's a technology platform used by hundreds of thousands of independent professionals to connect directly with facilities offering on-demand shifts.
Whether you're new to on-demand work or have been tied to staffing agencies for years, here are nine reasons to consider trading your PRN staffing agency for the ShiftKey app.
1. Set your schedule
Some agencies require a minimum number of hours each week. Even if that isn't official policy, your staffing agent’s preferences may affect the shifts you're assigned.
With the ShiftKey app, there's no middleman. You choose when, where and how often you work.
2. See shifts in real time
Working with a PRN staffing agency often means delayed communication — or last-minute calls that disrupt your life.
On the ShiftKey app, available shifts appear in real time, so you can plan ahead and book proactively. Many successful independent professionals even book weeks in advance.
3. Work where you want
A staffing agency may limit your facility options. With ShiftKey, you decide which facilities fit your schedule, your preferences and your career goals.
4. Enjoy improved work-life balance
PRN staffing agencies don’t always offer flexibility. With ShiftKey, you control your schedule, giving you more time for family, personal priorities and rest. Greater flexibility can help reduce nurse burnout, a major issue in healthcare.
5. Don't be on call
When you're tied to a PRN staffing agency, you may be stuck waiting for calls that dictate your schedule.
With ShiftKey, you simply open the app, browse shifts and bid on the ones that fit your life. No unwanted phone calls.
6. Don't sign any contracts
Many staffing agencies lock you into contracts that limit your freedom.
ShiftKey keeps things flexible. You work as an independent professional, with no contracts and no long-term commitments. You can even use ShiftKey to supplement income around another job.
7. Create your own network
PRN staffing agencies often funnel professionals into the same facilities.
With ShiftKey, you can expand your professional network across multiple healthcare facilities, meet new colleagues and open doors to future opportunities.
8. Work right away
Both staffing agencies and ShiftKey require proof of licensure and credentials, but agencies may add extra requirements, like redundant training.
On ShiftKey, you complete your initial signup in about 10 to 15 minutes, then go at your own pace to finish credentials and start bidding on shifts.
9. Get paid on your terms
PRN agencies usually pay weekly or bi-weekly at fixed rates.
With ShiftKey, you set your own rates, and payments are available right after your shift!
ShiftKey or PRN staffing agency: The choice is clear
If you’re ready to move beyond the limitations of a PRN staffing agency, ShiftKey gives you the freedom to:
- Choose your own schedule
- Work where you want
- Get paid faster
- Build your professional network
Work should be as flexible as it is rewarding. Once your credentials are verified, you'll have access to thousands of healthcare communities nationwide!
