Navigating the CRNA Presentation Process in VMS Platforms: What You Need to Know
For CRNAs considering contract work through an agency, understanding the Virtual Managed Service (VMS) bidding process can be crucial. Agencies are often engaged in a competitive environment to submit candidates for high-demand roles, all while juggling details like pay rates, compliance, and credentialing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how this process works, and how you can protect your CV and personal brand while navigating it.
Step 1: Agencies Identify Open CRNA Contract Jobs
The first step in the VMS process is for agencies to comb through job requisitions posted by healthcare facilities. These roles are often for 1099 CRNAs and include options for locum tenens, short-term, and long-term assignments. Each job listing typically specifies essential details like required skills, potential start dates, and the facility’s pay range.
Tip for CRNAs: You may not have direct access to these VMS platforms, but staying in regular contact with your agency about what’s available and ensuring they are clear on your preferences is essential. Your agency should update you on opportunities that align with your criteria and provide a realistic view of the rates.
Step 2: Agencies Submit Your Profile and Proposed Rate
After identifying a match, the agency submits your profile to the VMS platform. This profile includes your CV, references, certifications, and any other required documentation. They can’t present you for the job without this information. They longer it takes you to get the necessary information submitted, the more likely that you’ve wasted some time and started a process that will not result in success. In addition, the agency proposes a pay rate based on the facility’s needs and the budget requirements. The rate is often a critical factor, as agencies are aware of the competitive nature of VMS platforms, where multiple agencies may be bidding for the same role.
Lokum App Advantage: Instead of sharing your CV repeatedly with agencies, consider uploading it to Lokum App’s secure credentialing wallet, where you can watermark it. You’ll retain control over how and where your CV is used, adding an extra layer of security and professionalism.
Step 3: The Competitive Bidding Stage
Agencies then enter a competitive phase where multiple candidates may be proposed by various agencies for a single job. VMS platforms frequently organize this as a bidding process, with agencies adjusting rates or terms to make their candidates more attractive. Facilities can view multiple submissions side-by-side, making the process highly competitive.
What CRNAs Should Know: The agency may keep you informed on your status, but it’s wise to ask for updates. A crucial detail here is understanding if the role may be awarded based on the lowest rate, so you aren’t undervalued. Transparency is vital: ask questions about how pay rates are determined and how much control you have over final decisions.
Step 4: The Facility’s Review and Selection
Once submitted, the facility’s hiring team reviews all presented CRNAs. The VMS platform typically allows the facility to score candidates based on qualifications, rate, and experience. The agency may or may not have access to this scoring, but facilities often communicate preferences or requests for more information back to the agency.
Lokum App Tip: Keep your credentials up-to-date in your Lokum App credentialing wallet. Facilities value candidates who have already uploaded the latest certifications and licenses, showing readiness and professionalism.
Step 5: Final Presentation Approval and Onboarding
If the facility selects you, the agency works to complete any additional steps for compliance and onboarding, which can include background checks and verifications. At this stage, it’s critical to ensure that your rate, job details, and expectations are clear.
Last Steps for CRNAs: Stay involved in final negotiations and ask for written confirmations of the role’s details, such as scheduling specifics, pay structure, and any benefits or travel accommodations. This step is also when your Lokum App credentialing wallet can streamline compliance, as everything the facility needs is in one secure location.
Understanding Your Role in the VMS Process
For CRNAs, understanding each step can help you advocate for yourself and maintain control. Knowing the basics about VMS contracts and where your profile is submitted can make a big difference in negotiating fair rates and protecting your professional identity. Additionally, Lokum App’s secure credentialing feature lets you store your watermarked CV, protecting your career while giving you peace of mind.
Checklist for CRNAs Navigating the VMS Process
- Communicate Clearly: Make sure your agency knows your job preferences and pay expectations.
- Control Your CV: Use Lokum App to store your CV with a watermark to ensure it’s used correctly.
- Stay Updated: Ask your agency for updates throughout the bidding process.
- Prepare Your Credentials: Keep your certifications and licenses current in Lokum’s secure wallet.
- Confirm Details: Before starting, get written confirmation of pay, schedule, and job terms.
Navigating the VMS process is an opportunity to ensure you’re represented accurately and fairly. Protect your credentials, communicate openly, and make the most of tools like Lokum App to streamline your journey.