Allied health professionals represent approximately 60% of the health care workforce in the U.S. Dentists, optometrists, nurses, doctors, and pharmacists aside, all other health workers fall under the allied health category. While the list of allied health specialties is considerable and varies, there is a great demand for Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants, and Speech-Language Pathologists. These allied health careers will open up numerous opportunities, so what are you waiting for? See below for more information on these professions from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Find your ideal travel therapy career today!
Allied Travel Career Options
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists help people who have injuries or illnesses improve their movement and manage their pain. They are often an important part of rehabilitation and treatment of patients with chronic conditions or injuries.
Education: Doctoral degree in physical therapy. All states require physical therapists to be licensed.
2010 Median Pay: $76,310 per year / $36.69 per hour
Job Outlook (2010-2020): 39% (much faster than average)
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists treat patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Education: Master’s degree in occupational therapy. Additionally, all states require occupational therapists to be licensed.
2010 Median Pay: $72,320 per year / $34.77 per hour
Job Outlook (2010-2020): 33% (much faster than average)
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in patients.
Education: Master’s degree. They must be licensed in most states; requirements vary by state.
2010 Median Pay: $66,920 per year / $32.17 per hour
Job Outlook (2010-2020): 23% (Faster than average)
Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical therapist assistants and physical therapist aides work under the direction of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries regain movement and manage pain.
Education: High school diploma, associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapist program, and on the job training.
2010 Median Pay: $37,710 per year / $18.13 per hour
Job Outlook (2010-2020): 45% (Much faster than average)
Occupational Therapy Assistant (or COTA)
Occupational therapy assistants and aides work under the direction of occupational therapists in treating patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Education: High school diploma (or equivalent) and an associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program. In most states, occupational therapy assistants must be licensed.
2010 Median Pay: $47,490 per year / $22.83 per hour
Job Outlook (2010-2020): 41% (Much faster than average)
The growth of these specialties is synonymous with the aging baby boomer population. This growing demand puts a strain on healthcare facilities as there are simply not enough local resources to keep up with the demand–leaving them with no other option than to call in outside reinforcements.
Cue Travel Therapists
Travel therapists are a saving grace for facilities looking to fill positions. So much so that they are willing to pay top dollar. This is where recruiters or staffing agencies come in. Recruiters are hired to scout for qualified leads, guide them through the hiring process, and negotiate a deal to get you, the therapist, to sign a travel therapy contract. The perks of signing a contract may include a higher salary, housing allowance, and/or paid travel and meals. With so many recruiters to choose from, it can be very overwhelming to determine who truly has your best interest in mind.
Allied Travel Careers works with over 20 reputable agencies who post jobs on our site. Searching and applying for a travel therapy job has never been easier! Compare between agencies and choose the one you feel is the best match. If you have any other questions, feel free to comment below!
