Hottest Allied Health Specialties for 2026
As healthcare continues to change and evolve, 2026 is shaping up to be another big year for allied health travelers. From X-ray techs to respiratory therapists, demand nationwide continues to rise as hospitals and clinics expand their teams to meet patient needs. Whether you are looking for your first travel assignment or your next adventure, here are what we expect to be the hottest allied health specialties for 2026.
Surgical Techs
ORs are busier than ever, and surgery techs are in high demand across the board. As hospitals work to keep up with growing surgical backlogs and elective surgeries, skilled techs who can jump in quickly are especially valuable.
As a traveler, you can expect higher pay, flexible shifts, and opportunities in many surgical specialties, from ortho to cardiothoracic.
Why it’s a great travel career:
- Consistent need in hospitals and outpatient centers
- A lot of variety in case types
- Great potential for overtime.
Radiologic & MRI Techs
Diagnostic Imaging is now central to nearly every other area in patient care. Radiologic and MRI techs continue to top the list for allied travel demand. Allied professionals with multiple modality certifications (like CT or mammography) can expect even more options.
Why it’s a great travel career:
- Higher pay and many job openings across the country.
- Opportunities to work with the latest imaging technology.
- Flexibility across hospitals, clinics, and mobile imaging units.
Repiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapy remains essential across all care settings. According to the 2026 projections, the demand will continue, especially in the winter months. With experience in ICU, pediatrics, or pulmonary rehabilitation, respiratory travelers can find assignments across the U.S.
Why it’s a great travel career:
- Year-round demand with seasonal spikes
- Rewarding work in high-impact settings
- Ability to work in acute or long-term care
Physical & Occupational Therapists
As the population continues to age and post-acute care expands, the need for both PTs and OTs grows. PTs and OTs are seeing more travel opportunities in hospitals, rehab centers, and home health. Allied travelers in these fields tend to enjoy longer assignments and the chance to work in diverse settings.
Why it’s a great travel career:
- Flexible assignment lengths
- Opportunities in both urban and rural locations
- High job satisfaction through patient progress
Medical Laboratory Technicians & Technologists
Behind the scenes, lab professionals keep healthcare moving. As testing volume grows and retirements rise, MLTs and MLS professionals are among the most in-demand allied travelers of 2026.
Why it’s a great travel career:
- They are critical roles in every hospital and clinic
- High demand in smaller and rural facilities
- Competitive pay and steady contract availability
Whether you specialize in imaging, therapy, or lab work, 2026 is full of opportunities for allied healthcare travelers ready to explore. TNAA’s Allied Division connects skilled professionals with assignments that align with their goals, offering expert support, competitive pay, and benefits that make life on the road easier.
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