During the Christmas season, many choices had to be made; Bratz Dolls or Barbies...D-Rex or Pleo and most importantly, Xbox360 or Wii.  Well, being the dad, I did what any normal dad would do, and said, "kids, go ask your mother." 
For my wife it was easy..."We're getting the Wii," she exclaimed.  I was happy she made this decision.  I thought it was a great idea to get the gaming console that would force the kids to be active while they played.  But that is not why my wife wanted to buy it.  You see, my wife is a Physical Therapist and she, in her infinite wisdom, decided that a couple of times a week she would take the family Wii to work with her to help her patients.  "Wow, what a great idea," I thought.  
I decided to look it up online to see if my wife was a genius, or were there other therapists using the Wii as a therapy tool.  I Googled "Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Wii" and in less than a quarter of a second 14,900 pages came available.  It seems Wii-habilitation has taken therapy by storm.  Articles in the USAToday http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/2008-02-08-wii-rehabilitation_N.htm, Time http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1584697,00.html and LiveScience http://www.livescience.com/health/080209-ap-wii-therapy.html are just a few of the thousands of stories of how the Wii is being used to bring folks back to health. 

Are there any therapists out there who read this blog who use the Wii for Wiihabilitation of their patients?  Let us know your thoughts and we'll report back soon.

I hope all of the thousands of PT, OT and SLP Travel Therapists out there who read my blog religiously, had a safe and happy Holiday Season!  Don't miss next week's blog "Who would win in a fight - An Allied Health Career Traveler or Godzilla?" 

With Warm Regards,

Scott Ferguson
MDI Medical
Recruiter
866-815-1750 x2308

MDI Medical is soon changing its name to Cirrus Allied Staffing.  Watch for it.

The holidays are over and it's time to get back to work.  Why not go someone warm for the winter.  Have you ever been to Arizona?  If you are a Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, or Speech language Pathologist your next travel assignment should be with MDI Medical.  MDI Medical has great travel opportunities in Arizona.  Don’t worry about getting there MDI Medical can assist you.  Housing, Per Diem, travel costs all included.  Our clients are offering huge bonuses to sign a contract for 26 weeks.  MDI has assignments for Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapists in major cities including Tucson, Phoenix, Kingman, Mesa, and Glendale.  If you are a traveler that is looking for adventure make Arizona your next stop on Route 66.   MDI offers diverse opportunities in Outpatient, Inpatient Rehab, and Acute Care.   Let us help you find your next Allied Health Job. 

 

Joseph Carlino

Account manager

MDI MEDICAL

866 518 1750 ext 2318

Call MDI MEDICAL today and we will make sure to assist with all your therapy needs.  We have been in business for over 7 years.  Our primary focus is staffing Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Therapists, and their respective assistants.  Do you have the coverage you need? We can help with supplement 13-week contracts throughout the United States.  MDI Medical is owned by Cirrus Inc.  Lookout for a name change in 2009, Cirrus Allied Staffing.  At MDI, our team has been successful at finding that "perfect person" our customer needs. Having the right person in the right position is often the difference between success and failure. Advertising, contacting, interviewing, checking eligibility and references are time-consuming efforts. MDI's large pool of candidates has been prescreened by our staffing professionals, enabling us to quickly respond to your needs. The percentage of professionals who stay with MDI is among the highest in the industry. Because most come to us through peer referrals, we know people work with us because they want to! In a field where competition for competence is high, the stability provided by the MDI team is reassuring.  Call us today and let us know where you need the help.  866 518 1750

Joseph Carlino
Senior account Manager 
 888 518 2318

To ALL PT, OT and SLP Travelers-

Tell us how you are spending your Holidays.  Seriously, this is

a blog.  It is supposed to be interactive.  Respond to this

blog and let us know how, where and with who you will be

spending the Holidays this year.  Yeah, I know most of you have

to work, but most of us have a day or two to relax, spending

time with family, shop for that bargin or party like its 1999.

In my family, my wife and my four children will be traveling

to, 72 degrees and sunny, Miami, Florida for a non-White

Christmas.  It definitely is a big change from last year when

we spent our Christmas in central Wisconsin (in 15 degree

weather and 3 feet of snow).

Wherever and with whoever you spend your Holiday Season,

remember that here at MDI Medical, we care a lot about our

Therapists.  Have a HAPPY and SAFE Holiday Season.

Warmest Regards,

Scott Ferguson
MDI Recruiter

BUT SERIOUSLY, RESPOND TO MY BLOG!!!

Up to date credentialing is important when determining your start date of your next assignment.  Travelers need to make sure their file is up to date.  MDI Medical can help you through this process along with finding you an  ideal assignment.  Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Therapist all require the same credentialing.  Before you decide on a start date make sure you have the following; Annual TB, Annual Physical, MMR Titers or Immunization Records, state license, CPR card, consent and release form for background check.  Allow time for a drug test if you do not have a current screen it will take 3 days minimum to process. MDI Medical Credentialing department will assist you in the process to meet Joint Commission standards.   Call today and speak to a MDI recruiter about your next opportunity.  For your next travel assignment call MDI Medical at 866 518 1750. 

Joseph Carlino
MDI MEDICAL
678 993 2318

MDI-Medical Weekly Payroll has been going exceptionally well.

Thanks to everyones participation in working hard to getting in their timesheets in a timely manner payroll has been completed in record times!

It seems that everyone is pleased with our weekly payroll .

Please make sure to get your timesheets in by close of business on Friday's no later than 12pm on Monday's.

What's new in 2009 for MDI Medical? We have a new name.....CIRRUS ALLIED STAFFING. Same great people&company you've been working with for years, just a new name. CIRRUS ALLIED STAFFING will continue to be the answer to ALL your Allied travel needs!!
 
Physical Therapist & Occupational Therapist needed for the Central Valley region of California. We have an abundance of Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy jobs for you we can't list them all. Please call CIRRUS ALLIED STAFFING formally, MDI Medical today!! (866)518-1750. All interested Physical Therapist & Occupational Therapist must have a valid CA PT or OT license to practice in the state. 
 
The Central Valley of California better known as "Fruit basket of the world" is the fastest growing region in California. Its large, flat valley dominates the central portion of California. The valley stretches nearly 400 miles from north to south. Its northern half is referred to as the Sacramento Valley, and its southern half as the San Joaquin Valley. The two halves meet at the shared delta of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers. ((Information provided by Wikipedia)

There is plenty of outdoor & water activities in the Central Valley. There are 6 rivers in Sacramento Valley (Sacramento River, Pit River, Feather River, Yuba River, Dry Creek & American River) and 9 rivers in San Joaquin Valley (Cosumnes River, Mokelumne River, Calaveras River, Stanislaus River, Tuolumne River, Merced River, Chowchilla River & Fresno River to enjoy. (Information provided by Wikipedia)

Happy Holidays & Safe Travels to you!!
 
Toni Sunkett
Account Manager

MDI Medical is excited to be part of Cirrus Medical Staffing! Look for our new name Cirrus Allied staffing in 2009.  January is right around the corner and everyone is preparing for their January assignments here is some helpful tips I have discussed before.  If you are a physical Therapist,  Occupational Therapist or a Speech Language Pathologist, here are some tips for interviewing for a travel opportunity.  Keep in mind, a decision is based off of one telephone conversation.  In order to land the opportunity you want be passionate, enthusiastic and a good listener.  Prepare ahead of time, convert your skills into a passionate speech about yourself and you will impress your audience.  Make sure you schedule your interview at a time when you can give 100% attention.  The director of Rehab will be able to pick up on any distractions, it could cost you the job.  Remember because interviews for travel opportunities happen over the phone, you need to be enthusiastic and animated. 

Joseph Carlino
MDI MEDICAL

ATTENTION ALL Speech Language Pathologists and Physical Therapists!!  Looking for a beautiful tranquil Northern California town to spend the holidays? Nothing gets better then Eureka, CA!! A well known Hospital in this coastal town located in Humboldt County, needs a Speech Language Pathologist and Physical Therapist for their fast growing programs. Physical Therapist will have valid California PT license, supervise Physical Therapy Assistants, work with patients and their families, do evaluations, admissions and work with the other therapists in the rehab department. Speech Language Pathologist will have valid California SLP license, work with patients and their families, do evaluations, admissions and work the other therapists in the rehab department.

Humboldt County boasts a scenic 110-mile coastline, more than 160,000 acres of majestic redwoods and an unspoiled terrain of valleys and rolling hills. Visitors of all ages can enjoy some of the nation's finest hiking and boating as well as rafting, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, golfing, and other sports for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition, Humboldt County turns back the clock with its rich Victorian architecture, history and antique shops. Truly a treasure, Humboldt County is a land of visual splendor. The City of Eureka is one of California’s best kept secrets.  A variety of cultural opportunities are available in Eureka, including active artisan, arts, and theater groups. Outdoor recreation is abundant with activities such as boating, sport fishing, kayaking, hunting, birding, and backpacking available close by. (Information provided by the Humboldt County Convention&Visitors Bureau)

The city of Eureka, a historic Victorian seaport in Northern California, is among the top ten emerging U.S. travel destinations for 2007, according to one of the world’s most popular travel websites. (Information provided by the Humboldt County Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Must see attractions in Eureka....

Art of Wine Gallery and Tasting Room - 308 2nd Street, Eureka. Located in Old Town: Art of Wine Gallery & Tasting Room specializes in fine art from local artists, and fine local and California wines.

Mural Tour Eureka - Humboldt County is home to hundreds of artists, a fact that becomes apparent when you notice the numerous murals that adorn area buildings. Here is a self-guided tour that identifies some of Eureka's finest.
Humboldt Botanical Gardens Foundation - 7351 Tompkins Hill Road, Eureka. The Humboldt Botanical Garden will provide an educational and working botanical garden for this region and is so doing even while under construction.
Indian Island - The Wiyot people inhabited the Humboldt Bay region in a number of villages, including Tuluwat, on present-day Indian Island. Also site of one of the largest multi-species heron rookeries in Northwestern California.
Sequoia Park & Zoo and Cafe - 3414 W Street , Eureka - - Spend a couple of hours or the day - there’s always plenty to do and see at the Sequoia Park and Zoo.

Carson Mansion - 143 M Street, Eureka. Often called the most photographed Victorian in the United States. A picturesque blend of Victorian architectural styles. Visitors are welcome to view the mansion and take photos from the sidewalk

LCI 1091 WWII Landing Craft - Commercial Street Dock, Eureka. The last operational LCI in the United States now serves as the Humboldt Bay Naval Sea/Air Museum. Humboldt Bay at Waterfront & Commercial, behind Go-fish restaurant.

Eureka Old Town Waterfront Self Guided Tour - Take this self-guided architectural tour through Eureka's historic Victorian seaport in Old Town on the Waterfront. Restored vintage commercial buildings on Humboldt Bay. 

Happy & Safe Travels!!

Toni Sunkett
Account Manager

Vacations Promote Creativity: A good vacation can help us to reconnect with ourselves, operating as a vehicle for self-discovery and helping us get back to feeling our best.

Vacations Stave Off Burnout: Workers who take regular time to relax are less likely to experience burnout, making them more creative and productive than their overworked, under-rested counterparts.

Alameda is located on a small island of the same name next to Oakland in the San Francisco Bay. There are so many things to do in the area you will not know where to begin.......
 
The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the opening of the San Francisco Bay onto the Pacific Ocean. As part of both U.S Route 101 and State Route 1, it connects the city of San Francisco on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula to Marin County. The Bridge was completed in 1937 and has become an internationally recognized symbol of San Francisco and California.
 
Golden Gate Park has 1000 acres of gardens, meadows, lakes, golf, archery, and internationally recognized art and science museums, Golden Gate Park offers endless recreational possibilities for visitors and locals. The deYoung Museum and the Japanese Tea Garden are some of the main attractions of the famous park, drawing millions of visitors each year. At the western edge of the park, Ocean Beach, although unappealing for swimming, attracts hard-core surfers with its rough, frigid and unpredictable waves.

Alcatraz Island offers a close-up look at the site of the first lighthouse and US fort on the West Coast, the infamous federal penitentiary long off-limits to the public, and the 18 month occupation by Indians of All Tribes which saved the tribes. Rich in history, there is also a natural side to the Rock - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and bay views beyond compare.
 
Palace of Fine Arts was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Expo, which San Francisco hosted.  It was built to have the feel of an overgrown Roman ruin, and they had not built it to last as they had expected to tear it down once the Exposition was over.  However, the city of San Francisco developed such love for the Palace of Fine Arts that they decided to keep it. Today, the Palace of Fine Arts remains a beautiful picturesque oasis that lures tourists in with its simplistic beauty.
 
Aquarium of the Bay Opened in 1996 and enhanced in 2001, Aquarium of the Bay is a unique educational and entertainment facility dedicated to the rich and diverse aquatic life of San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waters.

I'm back! I know you have missed me :)

I wanted to follow-up with you regarding the Fish! Philosophy. One of the main components of the Fish! Philosophy is the ability to Choose Your Attitude. You might be asking what exactly that means. I'm glad you asked!

First, you have to remember that "there is always a choice about the way you do your work, even if there is not a choice about the work itself". Look, we all understand that you are going to have a bad day. It happens. However, while you are at work you should try to have a smile on your face. Smiles are contagious.

Stay positive even if something isn't going your way. Choosing Your Attitude really is about having a great outlook on life and deciding that only great things are going to happen. It is the difference between being ordinary or extraordinary!

So, no matter if you are working physical therapy jobs in Texas,  occupational therapy jobs in Ohio, or speech therapy jobs in Minnesota, remember that when you wake up today you have only two choices - do you want to have a good day or a bad day? I think we all want to have good days.

One of my favorite initiatives here at MDI has been our FISH! Program. No, this isn't where we go fishing for OT jobs or PT jobs. It is a program that helps drive our outstanding customer service and moral. Fish! was written by Harry Paul who is a Senior VP with the Ken Blanchard Companies. Mr. Paul uses the very famous Pike Place Fish Market as a way to show how an individual can apply a couple of simple philosophies to help better their lives.

Over the next few weeks I will go into more detail about these simple philosophies. In the meantime, I encourage you to pick up the book or ask one of your recruiters for it - we would be glad to share it with you!.
 
To get you started, I will share with you the 73 philosophies. Ok, I just wanted to make sure you were paying attention. There are only 4 main principles. Those principles are Be There, Choose Your Attitude, Make Their Day, and Play.

I will chat with you again next week about each area. If you have any feedback about the book or if you have been to the Pike Place Fish Market I would love to hear from you.

Did you know MDI has some of the comprehensive and low cost benefits in the Allied Health industry? Yes, it's true. The average increase in healthcare costs has risen over 20% over the last 5 years. MDI Medical hasn't increased our medical premiums at all over the past 3 years. We strive to offer the best benefits at an affordable price to our Travelers. MDI Medical believes in taking care of you and making sure that you are well covered.

Also, we are always trying to find ways to be innovative in our approach to what benefits we offer to our Travelers. Did you know that we do annual benefit plan reviews with our carriers? We do this to see which benefit plans are getting the most use and how they stack up against national averages. We also look at the coverage levels and how large their networks are. We are always making sure that no matter where you are living that you are getting great coverage from our benefits.

How do you think we stack up? Do you have any ideas on how to enhance the benefits that we offer to you?

I would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to leave me a comment!