Frequently Asked Questions
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FAQs for Allied Professionals
How much do allied travel professionals make each week?
Allied travel professionals generally earn $1,500 – $3,500 per week, depending on their specialty, certifications, and assignment location. High-demand roles—such as respiratory therapists, imaging technologists, or speech-language pathologists—can exceed $4,000 weekly.
Staffing agencies, including Atlas MedStaff, typically structure pay to include taxable base wages plus housing, meal, and travel stipends, and may offer completion or extension bonuses for longer assignments.
What benefits do allied travel professionals receive on assignment?
Most allied travel professionals receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with 401(k) options. Many agencies also reimburse travel expenses, certification renewals, and background checks.
Companies such as Atlas MedStaff frequently add referral bonuses, loyalty incentives, and dedicated recruiter support for disciplines like imaging, therapy, and laboratory services.
How long are allied travel professional assignments?
Allied travel assignments typically run about 13 weeks, though contract length can vary by specialty and facility needs. Some roles—such as physical therapy or radiology—may last just 4 weeks, while others can extend up to 26 weeks when hospitals renew or fill ongoing coverage gaps.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff often help travelers extend assignments or transition smoothly into their next placement.
Do allied travel professionals need a license for each state?
Yes, allied travel professionals must hold an active license in each state where they plan to work. Requirements differ by discipline — for example, radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and laboratory professionals may need state-specific credentials, national board certifications, or both.
Most agencies, including Atlas MedStaff, help allied travelers confirm licensing timelines and navigate state verification processes before accepting an assignment.
How soon can an allied travel professionals start after applying?
Most allied travel professionals can begin an assignment within 2–3 weeks of completing their application and submitting credentials. The exact start date depends on factors such as licensing requirements, certification verification, and facility onboarding timelines.
High-demand specialties—like imaging, respiratory therapy, or rehabilitation—sometimes offer expedited starts, and agencies such as Atlas MedStaff help travelers manage required paperwork to start as quickly as possible.
What are the most common allied travel professionals’ specialties?
Common specialties for allied travel professionals include respiratory therapy, diagnostic imaging, medical laboratory science, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology.
Demand shifts based on care setting—outpatient clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers—and can fluctuate with patient volume and seasonal trends.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff frequently place allied professionals across these specialties and assist with state licensing and credential verification for each discipline.
What makes one allied travel professional agency better than another?
The most respected allied travel professional agencies combine responsive communication, knowledgeable recruiters familiar with imaging, therapy, and lab disciplines, and a streamlined credentialing process.
Competitive pay packages, continuing education options, and assignment flexibility are key differentiators, while referral programs and long-term traveler perks show an agency’s ongoing commitment to its professionals.
Organizations such as Atlas MedStaff emphasize relationship-driven support and help allied travelers find consistent success across multiple assignments.
Do allied travel professionals get free housing or a stipend?
Most allied travel professionals receive a weekly housing stipend, giving them flexibility to select accommodations that match their assignment location and lifestyle preferences. Some agencies still arrange housing directly, particularly for long-term or rural placements, but stipends remain the standard approach.
Allied professionals in therapy, imaging, or laboratory roles often rely on local housing recommendations from recruiters at agencies like Atlas MedStaff, who know the surrounding communities and typical price ranges.
What is the allied travel professional application process?
The application process for allied travel professionals generally includes the following steps:
- Create an online profile and upload your resume and work history.
- Submit discipline-specific licenses, certifications, and immunization records.
- Connect with a recruiter experienced in allied health fields to discuss job preferences.
- Review available contracts that match your specialty, location, and schedule.
- Complete credentialing tasks such as background checks, skills tests, or verification of national certifications (e.g., ARRT, ASCP, NBCOT).
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff help allied professionals manage documentation and keep the process moving efficiently from application to assignment start.
Can allied travel professionals choose where they work?
Yes, allied travel professionals can choose where and when they accept assignments. Recruiters match opportunities to your discipline—such as imaging, respiratory therapy, or laboratory science—along with your preferred locations, contract length, and start date.
You decide which offers to pursue based on your goals and current licensing status, and agencies like Atlas MedStaff help align those choices with facility demand and credentialing timelines.
Do allied travel professional agencies offer referral bonuses?
Yes, referral bonuses are common among allied travel professional agencies. These programs reward you for referring qualified colleagues—including radiologic technologists, therapists, and laboratory professionals—who successfully complete an assignment.
Bonus amounts, payout schedules, and eligibility requirements differ by company. Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff clearly outline their referral guidelines so travelers know how and when bonuses are paid.
Are allied travel professional agencies accredited or certified?
Yes, most reputable allied travel professional agencies maintain national healthcare accreditation that verifies their commitment to ethical staffing and clinical quality. The most recognized credential is The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, awarded to agencies that meet rigorous standards for safety and compliance.
For allied professionals—particularly those in diagnostic, imaging, and therapeutic roles—working with an accredited agency such as Atlas MedStaff helps ensure adherence to licensure, credentialing, and patient care best practices.
Do allied travel professional agencies reimburse for travel and license costs?
Yes, most allied travel professional agencies reimburse job-related expenses, including travel and state license fees. Covered costs may include airfare, mileage, lodging, license applications, background checks, and immunizations.
Reimbursement policies differ by agency, but companies like Atlas MedStaff typically require proof of payment (such as receipts or documentation) submitted within a specific timeframe for processing.
Do allied travel professional agencies help with credentialing and licensing?
Yes, most allied travel professional agencies assist with credentialing and licensing requirements. This includes helping gather and verify board certifications, state licenses, vaccination records, and background checks.
Allied travelers also receive discipline-specific guidance for meeting standards from organizations such as ARRT, ASCP, or NBCOT.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff provide dedicated credentialing teams that track timelines and documentation to ensure professionals are cleared to start assignments on schedule.
How often do allied travel professionals get paid?
Most allied travel professionals are paid weekly, though exact pay frequency can differ by agency or facility contract. Weekly pay provides consistent income for professionals working in imaging, therapy, or laboratory settings, where assignment hours may fluctuate.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff clearly outline pay schedules and direct-deposit timelines before each contract begins, ensuring transparency and predictable pay cycles.
What support do allied travel professionals get during an assignment?
Allied travel professionals receive ongoing support from a dedicated recruiter and agency teams that manage credentialing, payroll, compliance, and traveler relations. These teams help resolve issues such as documentation delays, scheduling conflicts, or facility onboarding questions.
For professionals working in therapy, imaging, or laboratory departments, agencies like Atlas MedStaff provide quick communication and personalized guidance to keep assignments running smoothly and patient care uninterrupted.
Can allied travel professionals extend their assignments?
Yes, many allied travel professionals can extend their assignments when the facility’s staffing needs and their availability align. Extensions are commonly offered in departments such as imaging, rehabilitation, or laboratory services, where long-term coverage gaps may persist.
Recruiters from agencies like Atlas MedStaff coordinate with facilities to confirm new contract terms, pay adjustments, and updated end dates, ensuring a smooth continuation of the assignment.
How far in advance should allied travel professionals apply for an assignment?
Allied travel professionals should apply 4–6 weeks before their desired start date to allow time for license verification, background checks, and credentialing review.
Certain specialties—such as diagnostic imaging, rehabilitation, or laboratory science—may require earlier preparation due to complex documentation or multi-state licensing.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff help applicants track required materials and can occasionally expedite placements when facilities have urgent openings.
How do allied travel professionals handle time off during an assignment?
Allied travel professionals can request time off directly through their recruiter or facility supervisor before the contract is finalized. Most agencies require these dates to be approved in advance and included in the assignment agreement.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff recommend early communication to help align patient-care coverage and facility scheduling expectations.
What happens if an allied travel professional’s assignment is canceled?
If an allied travel assignment is canceled, agencies usually work to reassign the professional to a similar role as quickly as possible. Contract terms often include details about cancellation notice periods and whether any stipend or travel reimbursements apply.
Recruiters at Atlas MedStaff assist in securing a new placement that fits your specialty and timeline.
How do allied travel professionals stay compliant with facility policies?
Allied travelers are expected to follow each facility’s clinical and safety protocols, including charting procedures, confidentiality, and infection control standards.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff provide orientation materials and compliance checklists to help allied professionals meet facility expectations from day one.
Can allied travel professionals bring family or pets on assignment?
Yes, many allied travelers bring family members or pets, especially when using a housing stipend to choose their own accommodations.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff can share pet-friendly housing options or help locate nearby schools and short-term rentals for family travel.
FAQs for Nurses
How much do travel nurses make per each week?
Travel nurses generally earn $1,500 to $3,500 per week, depending on specialty, location, shift type, and current market demand. In high-need areas or critical care roles—such as ICU, OR, or crisis contracts—weekly pay can exceed $4,000.
Staffing firms like Atlas MedStaff typically offer blended pay packages that include taxable hourly wages plus tax-free housing, meal, and travel stipends.
What benefits do travel nurses receive on assignment?
Travel nurses commonly receive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with 401(k) retirement plans, travel reimbursements, and license renewal support.
Many agencies, including Atlas MedStaff, also provide referral bonuses, loyalty rewards, and a dedicated recruiter to guide nurses throughout each assignment.
How long are travel nurse assignments?
Most travel nurse contracts last about 13 weeks, though exact length can vary by specialty, facility, and nurse availability. Some roles may run as short as 4 weeks or extend to 26 weeks if the hospital renews or needs ongoing coverage.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff often assist with assignment extensions or seamless transitions to the next opportunity.
Do travel nurses need a license for each state?
Yes, travel nurses must hold a valid nursing license for every state where they practice. Nurses in Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) states can typically work across multiple states under one multistate license.
When an assignment is in a non-compact state, agencies such as Atlas MedStaff assist with single-state applications, endorsement transfers, and license tracking to simplify the process.
How soon can a travel nurse start after applying?
Travel nurses typically start new assignments within 2–3 weeks after applying, depending on how fast credentialing and compliance steps are completed and when the facility prefers the start date.
For urgent or crisis contracts, agencies like Atlas MedStaff can sometimes coordinate faster onboarding and travel arrangements to meet immediate staffing needs.
What are the most common travel nurse specialties?
The most common travel nurse specialties include ICU, ER, OR, telemetry, labor and delivery, NICU, PICU, pediatrics, and cath lab. Many agencies also staff step-down, med-surg, and telemetry float positions based on hospital demand.
Companies like Atlas MedStaff regularly fill high-acuity and specialty nursing roles nationwide, helping nurses match assignments to their experience and preferred work environments.
What makes one travel nurse agency better than another?
The best travel nurse agencies stand out through transparent communication, personalized recruiter guidance, and efficient credentialing and compliance.
They typically provide competitive pay, strong health benefits, and loyalty or referral rewards that recognize long-term nurses.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff focus on clarity, consistency, and trust, helping travel nurses navigate assignments confidently and build lasting recruiter relationships.
Do travel nurses get free housing or a stipend?
Most travel nurses receive a tax-free housing stipend and secure their own accommodations near the assignment facility. Some agencies provide pre-arranged housing, though stipends are more common because they offer greater choice and flexibility.
Recruiters from agencies such as Atlas MedStaff frequently share trusted local housing options and can assist with short-term leases or roommate matching when available.
What is the travel nurse application process?
The travel nurse application process typically involves these key steps:
- Complete an online profile that includes your work history and current certifications.
- Submit active nursing licenses, credentials, and compliance documentation.
- Speak with a recruiter to discuss locations, shifts, and pay packages.
- Review job matches and choose the assignment that best fits your goals.
- Undergo credentialing, which may include a background check, drug screen, or clinical skills assessment.
Staffing firms such as Atlas MedStaff guide nurses through each step, ensuring compliance and a smooth onboarding experience.
Can travel nurses choose where they work?
Yes, travel nurses can choose where they work and which assignments to accept. Job options are tailored to your specialty, preferred region, shift type, and contract duration.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff present a range of current openings and help nurses compare pay packages, facility settings, and start dates before deciding.
Do travel nurse agencies offer referral bonuses?
Yes, most travel nurse agencies offer referral bonuses to nurses who recommend qualified peers that complete an assignment. These incentives may include cash payments or loyalty points, depending on the agency’s program.
Companies such as Atlas MedStaff provide clearly defined bonus tiers and easy online submission tools, making it simple to track referrals and rewards.
Are travel nurse agencies accredited or certified?
Yes, many travel nurse agencies hold accreditation from national healthcare oversight organizations, demonstrating their dedication to quality, safety, and ethical staffing practices. The most recognized distinction is The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, which reflects excellence in healthcare staffing standards.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff maintain this accreditation to ensure consistent compliance and professional support for travel nurses across all assignments.
Do travel nurse agencies reimburse for travel and license costs?
Yes, many travel nurse agencies reimburse nurses for travel expenses and state licensing costs. Common reimbursements include airfare, mileage, temporary lodging, and license application fees, and sometimes background checks or required vaccinations.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff outline clear reimbursement procedures and usually require receipts or documentation to verify eligible expenses.
Do travel nurse agencies help with credentialing and licensing?
Yes, most travel nurse agencies offer full credentialing support, guiding nurses through license submission, certification verification, immunization tracking, and background screening.
Many agencies, including Atlas MedStaff, also assist with Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) processing and renewal steps when applicable, helping nurses stay compliant and ready for their next assignment.
How often do travel nurses get paid?
Most travel nurses receive weekly pay, which provides steady income throughout their assignments. Pay schedules may vary slightly depending on the agency or facility payroll system.
Companies like Atlas MedStaff use consistent weekly direct deposit and communicate exact pay dates before each assignment starts.
What support do travel nurses get during an assignment?
Travel nurses are supported by a dedicated recruiter along with credentialing, payroll, compliance, and traveler experience teams. These teams assist with licensing updates, pay questions, scheduling concerns, and communication with facility contacts throughout the contract.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff emphasize 24/7 accessibility and proactive issue resolution, ensuring nurses have dependable support from start to finish.
Can travel nurses extend their assignments?
Yes, travel nurses often have the opportunity to extend their assignments if the facility still requires coverage and the nurse is available. Extensions are arranged through the recruiter, who confirms new dates, compensation details, and approval from the hospital.
Agencies such as Atlas MedStaff help nurses decide whether an extension fits their goals and coordinate any updated documentation or compliance steps.
How far in advance should travel nurses apply for an assignment?
Travel nurses are encouraged to apply about 4–6 weeks before their preferred start date to complete credentialing, compliance checks, and job matching.
Assignments that require compact-state or new-state licensing may take longer to process, so starting early helps prevent delays.
Companies such as Atlas MedStaff also assist with accelerated onboarding for urgent or crisis placements when timing is critical.
How do travel nurses handle time off during an assignment?
Travel nurses can request scheduled days off through their recruiter or facility contact before signing the contract. Pre-approved time off is typically built into the assignment to ensure continuity of care.
Companies such as Atlas MedStaff help coordinate time off requests so nurses can maintain a balanced schedule.
What happens if a travel nurse’s assignment is canceled?
If a travel nurse contract is canceled, agencies generally try to find an alternate placement right away. The recruiter reviews your options and confirms any pay or travel reimbursements in regards to your new contract.
Atlas MedStaff prioritizes quick reassignments so nurses can minimize downtime between contracts.
How do travel nurses stay compliant with facility policies?
Travel nurses must adhere to all hospital policies; including charting requirements, medication safety, and patient-privacy standards.
Agencies like Atlas MedStaff supply facility-specific orientations and maintain compliance records to support a smooth onboarding process.
Can travel nurses bring family or pets on assignment?
Yes, travel nurses often bring spouses, children, or pets while on assignment. Using a housing stipend gives flexibility to secure suitable accommodations.
Recruiters at Atlas MedStaff can provide local insights on pet policies and family-friendly housing near each facility.
Atlas MedStaff FAQ
What makes Atlas MedStaff different from other travel healthcare agencies?
Atlas MedStaff is known for its “unapologetically human” approach — prioritizing genuine relationships, trust, and strong recruiter support. Travelers choose Atlas for personalized guidance, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, along with loyalty programs that reward long-term partnerships.
We also focus on clear communication and consistent traveler care, which helps ensure a smoother experience from application through assignment. Learn more on our About Us page.
How long has Atlas MedStaff been in business?
Atlas MedStaff has been in business since 2012. What started in Omaha with a small, scrappy team has grown into one of the top travel healthcare staffing firms in the country.
We’ve appeared on the Inc. 5000 list multiple times and built a reputation for putting travelers first, supported by a strong company culture and long-term industry partnerships.
How is Atlas rated as a healthcare staffing agency?
Atlas is consistently recognized as one of the top healthcare staffing agencies in the country. We’ve earned multiple honors from Great Recruiters, including being named one of the Top Rated Healthcare Staffing Firms three years running, based on reviews from real travelers.
We’ve also been recognized by Staffing Referrals for excellence in building strong referral networks and creating consistently positive traveler experiences.
How do I contact Atlas MedStaff if I have more questions?
You can reach Atlas MedStaff by calling 855-884-2360 or by visiting our Contact Us page to speak with a recruiter or receive support.
How do I get paid as an Atlas MedStaff traveler?
Atlas MedStaff uses Paycom to process payroll for all travelers. Once you’re onboarded, you’ll get access to your Paycom account where you can view pay stubs, direct deposit details, and tax documents.
If you’re not set up yet or having trouble logging in, reach out to your recruiter or our payroll team for assistance.
How do I submit a referral to Atlas MedStaff?
You can submit a referral through our Refer a Friend page, where you’ll find the program details, eligibility requirements, and the form to enter your referral. The program currently offers $800 for the referrer and $200 for the referred traveler, with qualifications and payout rules outlined on the page.
Where can I see what benefits Atlas MedStaff offers?
Right here: Atlas Benefits
We’ve laid it all out — medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and more!
Where can I submit proof of my flu shot or get more info?
Visit our flu shot resource page to find instructions on how and where to submit your documentation, along with important details about requirements, deadlines, and submission steps.