Setting up ShiftKey job alerts requires navigating to the notification settings within the platform to toggle preferences for SMS, email, and push notifications. For healthcare professionals using the platform for PRN (pro re nata) work, these alerts are a method for receiving updates on available shifts, cancellations, and facility requests. Because the platform operates on an independent contractor model where shifts are claimed by users, configuring these settings correctly is a standard step for maintaining a consistent workflow.
Configuring Notifications for Healthcare Professionals
Independent healthcare providers using ShiftKey manage their notification preferences to stay informed about available opportunities. The platform supports three notification channels: Text (SMS), Email, and Push notifications.
To access these settings, log into the ShiftKey app or web portal and follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Profile icon or menu.
- Select Settings.
- Click on Notifications.
Within this menu, users can enable or disable alerts for different categories of information. According to the ShiftKey Help Center, users have the flexibility to choose which channels are active for specific types of updates.
Push Notifications
Real-time push notifications are delivered directly to your smartphone via the ShiftKey mobile app. These are used to receive alerts about new shift postings or direct requests from facilities. For professionals who require immediate access to shift updates, keeping push notifications enabled is a standard recommendation.
SMS (Text) Alerts
SMS alerts provide a secondary layer of notification that does not require the app to be open or active in the background. This can be useful for providers who may be in areas with inconsistent data coverage but stable cellular service.
Email Notifications
Email alerts are typically used for account updates, shift confirmations, and other non-urgent communications. While email provides a searchable record for your scheduling history, it is often used in conjunction with more immediate alert types.
Setting Up Alerts for Healthcare Facilities
Facility administrators and schedulers use a specific interface to manage their alerts. For facilities, notifications are focused on shift fulfillment and provider cancellations.
To manage these settings, facility users should:
- Click Settings in the left-hand navigation menu.
- Select Notifications.
From this screen, facilities can customize how they are alerted when a provider cancels a shift or when a shift remains unfilled. Managing these facility notification settings is a step in ensuring staffing ratios are maintained and that backfill procedures can be initiated.
Notification Strategy Checklist
Use the following checklist to ensure your alert system is configured for your workflow.
| Feature | Recommended Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Push Notifications | Enable in App Settings | Receive real-time alerts for new shifts and requests. |
| SMS Alerts | Enable in Profile Settings | Backup notification channel when data is unavailable. |
| Email Alerts | Enable in Profile Settings | Maintain documentation and shift confirmations. |
| Device Settings | Verify "Allow Notifications" | Ensure the mobile device does not block app alerts. |
| Manual Check | Verify in App | Check shift status directly before traveling to a facility. |
Troubleshooting and Verification
If you have configured your settings but are not receiving notifications, consider the following verification steps:
- Verify Account Status: If your credentials, such as a nursing license or background check, have expired, the platform may temporarily suspend shift alerts until your profile is compliant.
- Check Device-Level Permissions: On iOS and Android devices, ensure that notifications for the ShiftKey app are toggled on in the system settings and not silenced by "Do Not Disturb" modes.
- Manual Verification: ShiftKey officially advises professionals to check the status of a shift within the app directly before traveling to a facility. Notifications are a convenience, but the in-app status is the final authority on whether a shift is active.
FAQ
How do I stop all notifications? You can opt out of alerts by toggling every option to "Off" in the Notifications menu under Settings. Note that this may result in missing information regarding shifts you have already committed to work.
Where can I download the mobile app? The ShiftKey mobile app is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. It is designed to handle real-time push notifications for upcoming shifts and requests.
Can facilities manage cancellation alerts? Yes, facility users can customize their notification preferences for provider cancellations by navigating to the Settings menu on the left-hand side of their dashboard.