Healthcare Staffing Report: May 15, 2014

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Are you effectively controlling your hotel costs in this market? — Sponsor Content

How healthcare staffing firms can save on extended stay hotels

When selecting a hotel for a trip that lasts longer than three weeks, healthcare staffing firms often turn to chains such as Extended Stay America, Candlewood Suites or Hyatt House. The amenities that come with these types of properties — kitchenettes, larger spaces and laundry facilities — offer relief for traveling healthcare professionals at a more affordable price than a traditional hotel.

The long-stay hotel market has exploded in the last 10 years, and big chains are boosting serious investment funds to attract more business travelers. One example is Extended Stay America (NYSE: STAY). After being purchased in 2004, investors poured $626 million into renovations and pulled the hotel giant out of bankruptcy. In 2013, Extended Stay America raised $565 million with its initial public offering. Hilton (NYSE: HLT), managed by the same investors, quickly followed suit.

With the long-stay hotel market booming and billions being poured into upgrades, features and new locations, being able to place your healthcare traveler into these affordable suites is a must. But if your employees book hotels on any of the traditional travel websites, you’re leaving money on the table.

Use a housing firm like Travelers Haven, not a discount travel website, to secure the lowest rates.

Online booking sites can be great for a good deal, but not when you need to book a trip longer than three weeks. When you need access to volume discounts across the country, use a corporate housing firm like Travelers Haven. Travelers Haven, which has a dedicated hotel department, offers managed and unmanaged travel options. Their rates at major extended-stay hotel brands consistently edge out the competition.

Recently, Travelers Haven announced a rate deal with Extended Stay America that is the lowest in the healthcare industry, making their rates for the largest extended stay chain the most competitive.

Headline: Compare Travelers Haven’s Negotiated Rates

Click on chart above to enlarge.

Travelers Haven: Competing against their own hotel rates.

Travelers Haven VP of Hotel Logistics, Abby Boyd, says they don’t just settle for their own corporate rate. “We do whatever we can to secure the lowest rates, including calling the hotel to see if we can beat our already negotiated price,” Boyd says. “And if a client finds a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it.”

To find out how Travelers Haven can reduce your hotel spend, call Abby Boyd, VP of Hotel Logistics, at 866.782.9300 or visit www.travelershaven.com