Blog
Most travel therapy contracts go smoothly—but on the rare occasion one gets canceled early, here’s what to expect.
Contract cancellations aren’t common, but if they do happen, that’s exactly why we’re here. Whether you’re chasing adventure, paying down debt, or building your career, your goals are at the heart of everything we do. If a contract ends unexpectedly, we step in to protect your income and help you pivot quickly—so you can stay focused on what matters, while we handle the logistics. From seasoned travelers to new grads, knowing you’ve got a team behind you makes all the difference.
Why do Travel Therapy Contracts Get Cancelled?
Several factors can lead to the early cancellation of a travel assignment. Some of the most common include:
- Changes in staffing needs: While rare, sudden shifts in patient populations can occur.
- Licensure or credentialing issues: If required documents aren't completed, verified, or renewed in time, facilities may need to cancel a contract before you even start the assignment.
- Contract violations: Not meeting performance standards, attendance requirements, or compliance expectations can cause early termination.
- Unexpected emergencies: Natural disasters, public health crises, or sudden internal changes at the facility can force cancellations.
While not every situation can be prevented, you can lower your risk by keeping your credentials up to date, building positive relationships on assignment, communicating openly with your recruiter, and following contract terms closely.
Steps to Take if your Contract is Cancelled
Sometimes you'll learn of a cancellation before your recruiter does.
- Always Call Your Recruiter: Get clarity from your recruiter to understand the reason behind the cancellation
- Talk to Our Clinical Liasson: If you experienced any challenges on the assignment that caused an early termination, meet with our Clinical Liasson to get insights on how to better handle certain situations, or in some cases, to advocate on your behalf, Most importantly, learn from any challenges you may have experienced to better instruct your recruiter on assignment preferences, or for personal and professional development.
- Respond Quickly to Recruiter Recommendations: Your recruiter will have already started looking at other assignments and they'll begin sending those to you ASAP. To ensure you prevent any gaps in your assignment, be sure to respond to texts, calls, or emails quickly!
Other helpful steps include keeping your resume updated so it reflects your flexibility and adaptability, staying open to per diem or PRN, and leaning on your recruiter’s network since they often have access to opportunities you won’t find at other staffing agencies.
Navigating Contract Cancellations During Emergencies
When life throws unexpected challenges your way—like a family emergency—contract cancellations can cause added stress. The first step is to notify your recruiter as soon as possible, sharing the situation along with any necessary documentation. The sooner your agency is aware, the faster your recruiter can guide you through your options. It’s also important to review your contract to understand policies related to emergencies, “force majeure” events, or cancellation terms. Throughout this process, rely on your agency's insight—they can help with transitions and reconnect with you to help you find assignments that fit your needs, especially during difficult times. Above all, lean on your recruiter, and focus on taking care of yourself while they help you navigate the next steps.
Dealing with a cancelled travel therapy contract can be stressful, but it’s far from the end of the road. With proactive communication, agency support, and a positive outlook, you can turn a cancellation into an opportunity to discover a new assignment, city, or setting that might be an even better fit.