Nursing situation in Montana (Missoula, Hamilton: 2010, school, wages)

[shrimplet]

Hi everyone,

I'm considering relocating to either the east coast or possibly Montana. I was wondering what the nursing situation is like, if there is a shortage in Montana as most other states. Also curious about the salaries of nurses in Montana as I'm aware that they are less than a lot of other states. I'm from the UK where it's impossible to survive as a nurse because we can't afford the properties and cost of living. I myself like a simple life with job satisfaction

[shrimplet]

Thanks for the response everyone

Looking back at all the threads about people expressing an interest in relocating to Montana, and the negative, unfriendly responses of the Montana people, I guess I shouldn't be suprised not to get a single response to this post.

I might add that I have posted this to a few other states which are short of nurses, and I've had nothing but positive responses from Maine, Vermont and Boston. A sure sign that there are friendly, open and helpful Americans out there in states other than Montana

[lorelei2873]

You know, there aren't actually many people on the Montana forum. We do what we can, but we're not at your beck and call. I actually went on the Bureau of Labor site and was planning to give you some data today, but your remarks were just plain rude. I know people were trying to help you with your other posted questions, too. You should be thankful, not spiteful. You only posted one day ago. I don't care to give you any information on job prospects here because your remarks lead me to believe are a demanding, "I want it now!" kind of person. I'm not sure that's the kind of behavior we're encouraging here in Montana. We're not unfriendly. We're just unhurried and laid back. But, we don't kindly to people badmouthing our state or our people.

It took me 3 days to get responses to a post I put up on a Washington board. I figured my topic wasn't very interesting or that no one had the answer yet. Eventually I got several great answers.

[shrimplet]

Thanks for the response. It basically confirms what I've been concerned about should I make the move and relocate to Montana. The same fears and concerns expressed by other writers to your forum.

I won't respond to your attacks on my character. It's not in my nature.
Have a good life

[victoriana]

Since my son goes to school in Montana and our family dearly loves the place, I must stick up for the Montana forum. I think if you search around the forums a bit, you will find that there are awesome posters as compared to some of the other state threads. It can get heated - especially on the east coast ones. Montanans are known FAR AND WIDE around our country for their openness, friendliness and good character. You would be hard pressed to find better neighbors. You too have a nice life and we all hope you find what you want. I can tell you - Boston is always desperate for registered nurses, and especially if you go with an international traveller's agency, your wages would be outstanding. My nieces are nurses in Norwich, Norfolk, England so I know what a monstrous mess the NHS is - so I don't blame you for wanting to leave. Best wishes.

[lorelei2873]

Thank you for your tactful response Victoriana, and welcome to the Montana forum!

[montanamom]

I live in the Bitteroot Valley and work in Missoula. I am here due to a custody situation - it wasn't my choice, I'm from the East Coast but trying to make the most of it, and trying to adjust. I can tell you that people here sing the praises of St. Patricks hospital in Missoula. I work with several people who have had loved ones who needed care there and they were just so impressed with the level of quality of care that was administered. Also, the Bitteroot Valley in Ravalli County, Mt. is growing by leaps and bounds, and I believe nurses are needed at the hospital in Hamilton, Mt., but I can't think of the name of it. If I could live in Hamilton and have a job there, I would. It is truly a beautiful, quaint and booming little town. Maybe this will help in your decision.

[fbcobrn]

Originally Posted by montanamom

Also, the Bitteroot Valley in Ravalli County, Mt. is growing by leaps and bounds, and I believe nurses are needed at the hospital in Hamilton, Mt., but I can't think of the name of it. If I could live in Hamilton and have a job there, I would. It is truly a beautiful, quaint and booming little town. Maybe this will help in your decision.

It's Marcus Daly Hospital. I will be moving to Hamilton near the end of 2007. I have already toured and looked into getting a job there. They tried to give me an application when I visited there 2 years ago, but I told them it would be a few years longer. haha.

I'm a Maternity nurse so I hope part of the growing is on the baby end!

[AQHA]

Originally Posted by lorelei2873

You know, there aren't actually many people on the Montana forum. We do what we can, but we're not at your beck and call. I actually went on the Bureau of Labor site and was planning to give you some data today, but your remarks were just plain rude. I know people were trying to help you with your other posted questions, too. You should be thankful, not spiteful. You only posted one day ago. I don't care to give you any information on job prospects here because your remarks lead me to believe are a demanding, "I want it now!" kind of person. I'm not sure that's the kind of behavior we're encouraging here in Montana. We're not unfriendly. We're just unhurried and laid back. But, we don't kindly to people badmouthing our state or our people.

It took me 3 days to get responses to a post I put up on a Washington board. I figured my topic wasn't very interesting or that no one had the answer yet. Eventually I got several great answers.

Good post lorelei2870!!

[xcoastie]

Just read the posts and wanted to thank everyone for the info. My wife and I are looking to move there around spring 2010. She is a RN with years of experience (Cath Lab, ICU,), and I will finish school with my RN associates spring of 2009. Our plan is for me to work for a year to get experience, and then make the move to MT. We are looking at Missoula, but are open to all options. Any one recommend a good area??

We have young children and want to raise them enjoying the outdoors/mountains. My wife likes to shop and eat out. I have been in the military for 8 yrs, and always respect the area/people where I live. I try to adjust to my environment not change my environment to my liking.
Does anyone work for the IHS (Indian health service) in MT?
Thanks in advance, sorry for so many questions