Checklist for Healthcare Worker Onboarding After Moving

Relocating as a healthcare worker? Here's everything you need to know to start your new job smoothly:

• Verify Licenses and Certifications: Check state-specific requirements, background checks, and continuing education credits.
• Prepare Documents: Have licenses, immunization records, certifications, and employment history ready.
• Complete HR Forms: Submit tax, eligibility, and benefits forms in your first week.
• Secure Facility Access: Set up ID badges, parking permits, and login credentials.
• Learn New Protocols: Understand dress codes, communication rules, and emergency procedures.
• Mandatory Training: Complete BLS, EHR, and compliance training.
• Relocation Tasks: Update your address, driver’s license, and voter registration.
• Settle In: Join professional networks and explore your new community.

For a smooth move, consider hiring experienced movers like MOD24, especially if you need help with medical equipment. Plan ahead, stay organized, and focus on both professional and personal transitions.

Before Moving: Job Requirements

License and Certification Check

Start by confirming your professional licenses with your state's medical board. Pay attention to state-specific requirements, such as:

• Documentation for license transfer
• State and federal background checks
• Additional testing or continuing education credits

Keep in mind that state processing times can vary, so plan ahead. Once this is sorted, gather all the paperwork needed for your new employer.

Required Documents for New Employer

Prepare a digital folder with the following:

• Professional licenses and certifications
• Updated immunization records (COVID-19, flu, TB tests)
• BLS/ACLS certification cards
• DEA registration (if applicable)
• Board certifications
• Proof of professional liability insurance
• Employment history and references
• Current CV or resume

Having these documents ready will make onboarding much easier.

Moving Services with MOD24

For your relocation, consider using MOD24 to find movers who are licensed, insured, and experienced with handling medical equipment. MOD24 offers:

• Scheduling options that accommodate hospital shift patterns
• Reliable customer support
• Online tools for booking and tracking

To stay on track, aim to book your movers 4-6 weeks before your start date. This will help ensure everything is in place for a smooth move.

First Week Tasks

New Hire Forms and Paperwork

During your first week, make sure to complete these essential HR forms:

• W-4: For tax withholding preferences.
• I-9: To verify employment eligibility.
• Direct Deposit Authorization: Submit a voided check or bank statement.
• Benefits Enrollment: Includes health insurance and retirement plans.
• Emergency Contact Information: Provide up-to-date details.
• HIPAA Compliance Documents: Acknowledge privacy rules.
• EHR Access Request: For electronic health record systems.

Schedule a meeting with HR within the first 48 hours to submit all paperwork. Most facilities require these forms to be finalized before you can begin clinical duties.

Facility Access and ID Setup

On your first day, secure your facility credentials:

• Photo ID Badge: Bring a government-issued photo ID.
• Electronic Key Fobs or Access Cards: For building access.
• Parking Permits: Along with lot assignments.
• Computer Login Credentials: For workstations.
• EHR System Access Codes: To access patient records.
• Medication Dispensing Access: For systems like Pyxis or Omnicell.
• Secure Messaging Setup: For internal communication.
• Pager or Communication Device: If required.

Visit the security office on day one to obtain these items. Most healthcare facilities require your ID badge to be worn and visible at all times while on-site.

Workplace Rules and Guidelines

Once you've secured access, take time to understand the facility's protocols:

• Dress Code:
  • Approved scrub colors and proper footwear.
  • PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) requirements.
  • Restrictions on jewelry and nail polish.
• Communication:
  • Procedures for shift handoffs.
  • Emergency response protocols.
  • Chain of command for reporting.
  • Guidelines for patient care documentation.
• Safety Standards:
  • Fire safety measures and evacuation routes.
  • Responses to facility codes (e.g., Code Blue, Code Gray).
  • Infection control practices.
  • Incident reporting steps.
  • Needle stick or exposure protocols.

Go through the employee handbook carefully and make note of key contacts for questions or emergencies.

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Clinical Setup Steps

Once you've wrapped up the initial HR tasks, it's time to dive into clinical setup and training.

Mandatory Training Programs

You'll need to complete these essential training sessions:

• Basic Life Support (BLS): Ensure your BLS certification meets the specific requirements of your state.
• Electronic Health Record (EHR) Training: Training hours vary depending on the system your facility uses:
  • Epic: 16–20 hours
  • Cerner: 12–16 hours
  • MEDITECH: 8–12 hours
• Clinical Equipment Orientation: Hands-on sessions to familiarize yourself with:
  • Patient monitoring systems
  • Various medical devices
  • Emergency equipment and their locations
• Compliance Training: Cover key areas such as:
  • OSHA's annual requirements
  • Infection control guidelines
  • Competency assessments for your department

Shadowing and Orientation Schedule

Orientation typically lasts 4–12 weeks, depending on your role. Here's a general breakdown:

• Week 1: Administrative orientation and a tour of your department.
• Weeks 2–3: Shadow experienced team members to observe daily operations.
• Weeks 4–8: Begin supervised patient care under guidance.
• Final Weeks: Transition to independent practice with support from a mentor.

During shadowing, pay close attention to:

• Workflow patterns specific to your unit
• Documentation processes
• Communication protocols between shifts
• Procedures unique to your department
• Locations of supplies and equipment

Understanding Facility Medical Protocols

Familiarize yourself with your facility's protocols, including:

• Emergency Response:
  • Criteria for activating the Rapid Response Team
  • Roles and responsibilities during a code
  • Locations of emergency equipment
  • Evacuation routes and procedures
• Clinical Guidelines:
  • Standard order sets
  • Pathways for managing common conditions
  • Policies for medication administration
  • Requirements for patient assessments
• Quality and Safety Measures:
  • Documentation for core measures
  • Goals to ensure patient safety
  • Fall prevention strategies
  • Infection control standards

Make sure to gain access to your facility's policy and procedure database during your first week. Most facilities offer 24/7 access via their intranet, making it easy to review protocols as needed.

Personal Relocation Tasks

Address and Contact Updates

Make sure to update your key contact information as soon as possible, ideally within the first week of moving:

• USPS Change of Address: File your change-of-address request online or at your local post office. Processing usually takes 7–10 business days.
• Update your address with these professional contacts:
  • State Board of Nursing or other licensing boards
  • Professional certification organizations
  • Healthcare associations
  • Medical insurance providers
• Financial Updates:
  • Update your bank and credit card information
  • Notify investment account managers
  • Update insurance policies
  • Adjust retirement plan details
  • Inform student loan servicers

Local Government Requirements

Within 30 days of becoming a resident, take care of these important tasks:

Task	Timeline	Notes
Driver's License	30 days	Bring your current license, proof of residency, and Social Security Number
Vehicle Registration	30 days	Requires title, insurance, and emissions test
Voter Registration	Before the next election	Can be done online or at the DMV
Property Tax Registration	60 days	Applies if you’re buying property

Some states offer a "one-stop" service at the DMV, allowing you to handle multiple registrations at once. Scheduling an appointment online can save you time and hassle.

Once your official documentation is updated, you can shift your focus to settling into your new community and professional environment.

Professional and Social Networks

Expand your network and settle into your new area with these steps:

• Professional Connections:
  • Join your local ANA chapter
  • Engage with specialty organizations
  • Attend healthcare-related conferences
  • Register with your local medical society
• Community Integration:
  • Join neighborhood groups
  • Sign up at nearby fitness centers
  • Get involved with local cultural organizations
  • Volunteer at health fairs
  • Attend employee mixers at your workplace

Next Steps and Resources

Wrap up your onboarding process with these essential resources:

Most facilities offer secure portals for accessing onboarding materials and training sessions. Make sure to get your HR login credentials within 48 hours.

Schedule regular meetings with your supervisor to discuss:

• Progress on required certifications
• Options for additional training
• Career growth opportunities
• Department goals and expectations

Moving Services with MOD24

If future relocation is needed, MOD24 provides these helpful moving services:

Service	Details
Priority Scheduling	Set arrival windows for convenience
Professional Packing	Skilled packing for your items
Storage Solutions	Includes 1 month of free storage
Moving Insurance	Covers $100 TV protection

Local Healthcare Resources

Stay connected with these local organizations to support your career:

• State Board of Health for continuing education requirements
• Regional healthcare worker unions
• Local medical societies
• Professional specialty organizations

These resources will help you stay informed and engaged in your field.

Emergency Contacts

Keep a list of key contacts readily available, including:

• Your department supervisor
• HR representative
• IT support desk
• Facility security
• Credentialing office

Lastly, save digital copies of all completed onboarding documents and note their completion dates. If you need further guidance, your facility's HR department can provide role-specific resources.