There’s an exciting decision coming: It’s the one you’ll make in every stage of your healthcare career! This choice isn’t just about your next job; it’s about what you want your life to look like, whether you’re a nurse, a therapist, a lab technician, or any other kind of healthcare pro. Are you a creature of habit and routine? Or do you prefer the option to break the mold and create your schedule? Maybe you fall somewhere in between.

We’re going to break down the pros, cons, and surprising perks of both options. By the end, you’ll have a better sense of which role is better suited to your goals, lifestyle, and personality. Let’s dive in.

What’s the Difference Between Per Diem vs. Permanent Healthcare?

First things first: Let’s break down what these terms even mean.

Permanent roles are full-time or part-time roles that have long been the staple of employment. You work for a hospital, clinic, or healthcare system for a specific number of hours per week (typically 36-40 full-time). You are eligible for things such as health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement plans, and occasionally, tuition reimbursement. You’re on a team, frequently on a set schedule.

Per diem positions (from the Latin for “per day”) are gig-style jobs. You are on call, working shifts as needed — no assured hours. It’s kind of like freelancing: You could work at several different facilities, snatch up shifts at the last minute, or cover vacations. The trade-off? Higher hourly rates (usually 20-30% higher than perm’s), no benefits, no PTO.

But here’s the catch: Neither one is “better” than the other. It really comes down to what you place the most value on right now. Let’s explore more.

The Case for Permanent Roles

Why the Path to Permanent Is the Best Way to Go

For those who like routine or work toward long-term financial goals (like a home purchase or student loan repayment), permanent roles provide a safety net. Here’s why so many feel that way:

Financial Security and Amenities

Permanent roles offer benefits that can significantly increase your employee value proposition. For instance, getting your health insurance through your employer can save you hundreds every month compared with purchasing a plan yourself. Throw in retirement contributions (such as a 401k match), paid sick days and vacation time, and the “lower” hourly pay starts adding up.

Healthcare occupations are projected to grow 13 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. So, this demand also means that permanent roles are not going anywhere and hence offer long-term job security.

Career Advancement

It is often the case that staying with one company leads to promotions, specialized training or a leadership role. Looking to go charge nurse or department manager? You can build relationships, demonstrate your skills, and climb the ladder with consistency in permanent positions.

Work-Life Balance

Permanent positions tend to include fixed schedules — Monday- Friday, 9-5 for admin workers or standard 12-hour shifts for hospital staff. This gives you more time in life outside work, whether that’s with family, hobbies, or further education, to plan for.

The Downsides?

Permanent positions can seem plodding. You are eligible to receive benefits until your October 2023 date. You can also miss higher per diem pay rates or not even have an opportunity to explore various specialties.

Why Per Diem Roles Are Booming

Now, let’s flip the script. The home for per diem work exploded post-pandemic, along with Zoom talent. Why? Because healthcare workers are seeking flexibility like never before.

Be Your Own Boss

Per diem means you can create your own schedule. Want to work three 12-hour shifts one week and then have the next week off to travel? Go for it. Have an exam to study for or a family member to care for? You are no longer required to get a supervisor’s approval to decline shifts.

According to a survey by AMN Healthcare, 85 percent of nurses consider flexible scheduling to be their top priority — a trend that’s prompting many nurses to take on per diem or travel jobs.

Higher Hourly Pay

No benefits? No problem (for some). Per diem positions typically pay more per hour to make up for the absence of insurance or PTO.

A permanent RN, for example, may make $40/hour, while a per diem RN in the same city could make $50-$55/hour. If you’re covered by a spouse’s health plan or don’t require benefits, this can translate into larger paychecks.

Explore Different Settings

It’s a healthcare sampler platter, per diem style. One week, you’re working in a jam-packed E.R.; the next, you’re taking shifts at a silent outpatient clinic. 

That variety helps keep the job interesting, allows you to grow varied skills, and lets you take a test-drive of workplaces before you commit to a permanent position.

The Catch?

Income can be unpredictable. There is no paid safety net if a facility reduces shifts or you become ill. You’ll lose out on workplace camaraderie and feel like an “outsider” relative to permanent staff.

So, Which Path Is Right for You?

The answer? It depends. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Choose Permanent if: You want stability, benefits, a long-term career path, and predictable income.
• Choose Per Diem if: You prioritize flexibility, higher hourly pay, variety, and the freedom to control your schedule.

 

Neither path is one-size-fits-all, and you may find yourself shifting between them at different stages of your career. Some healthcare professionals even blend both—working a permanent job while picking up per diem shifts on the side.

At the end of the day, it’s about what fits your life right now. So whether you thrive on routine or chase the thrill of the unknown, there’s a place for you in healthcare.

What’s your take? Have you worked in both types of roles? Share your experiences with us!