Navigating the travel healthcare job market? Healthcare staffing agencies can simplify your search, connect you with top-paying assignments, and support your career every step of the way.
The demand for travel healthcare professionals, including travel nurses and allied health professionals, is higher than ever. These roles offer flexibility, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work in diverse healthcare settings nationwide.
However, navigating the sea of job opportunities can be overwhelming. That’s where healthcare staffing agencies come in. These agencies connect travel nurses, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, medical technologists, and other allied health professionals with top-paying assignments.
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using a staffing agency, key factors to consider when choosing one, and some of the top healthcare staffing agencies for travel professionals in 2025.
Benefits of Using Travel Healthcare Staffing Agencies
Working with reputable healthcare staffing agencies offers several advantages that can elevate your travel career:
1. Expanded Job Opportunities
Staffing agencies have nationwide contracts, offering access to exclusive roles in hospitals, outpatient centers, rehab facilities, and more.
2. Competitive Pay and Benefits
Travel professionals often earn more than permanent staff and may receive:
- Tax-free housing and meal stipends
- Health insurance
- 401(k) plans
- Licensure reimbursement
- Completion and referral bonuses
3. Licensing and Credentialing Support
Agencies assist with state-specific licensing, credentialing, and compliance, helping streamline the onboarding process and reducing out-of-pocket costs.
4. Housing and Relocation Assistance
Most agencies offer housing stipends, while some may coordinate furnished accommodations, making it easier to relocate from one assignment to the next.
5. Career Support and Personal Recruiters
Dedicated recruiters help match your skills and preferences to the right jobs, negotiate contract details, and provide ongoing support throughout your assignments.
How to Choose the Right Healthcare Staffing Agency
With so many agencies out there, how do you choose the one that’s right for you? Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Reputation and Reviews
Seek out agencies that are well-reviewed by travel nurses and allied health professionals. Ask colleagues for recommendations or explore healthcare travel communities and forums.
2. Pay and Benefits
Compare compensation packages carefully. Look at:
- Hourly pay rates vs. stipend pay
- Tax-free reimbursements
- Health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses
3. Job Availability in Your Specialty
Some agencies specialize in specific areas such as travel nursing, therapy, or imaging. Make sure they offer jobs in your field—whether it’s PT, OT, SLP, radiology, or lab—and in the locations you’re targeting.
4. Recruiter Communication and Support
A good recruiter should listen to your goals, communicate clearly, and be available when you need them, especially during assignments.
Top Healthcare Staffing Agencies for 2025
Each year, The Gypsy Nurse conducts its Annual Agency Survey, where travel nurses and allied health professionals rank staffing agencies based on pay, benefits, recruiter support, job availability, and overall satisfaction.
According to the latest survey, the top staffing agencies in 2025 are:
These agencies consistently deliver a strong experience for travel professionals across the country.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Staffing Agency
Choosing the wrong agency can lead to frustration, missed opportunities, or subpar support. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Not reading contract details carefully – Review cancellation clauses, overtime rates, and contract lengths.
- Ignoring reviews and feedback – Do your research before signing.
- Focusing only on pay – High pay is great, but support, benefits, and job quality matter too.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right healthcare staffing agency can make all the difference in your travel healthcare career. Whether you’re a nurse, therapist, or allied health professional, partnering with a reputable agency ensures access to great jobs, strong support, and career growth.
Ready to take the next step?
Check out our job board and apply for your next adventure today.
Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.
