Agency Directory
CRNA Staffing Agencies Rated
Not all agencies are equal. Some prioritize your rate; others prioritize their margin. Here's an honest look at the major CRNA staffing agencies — what they do well, where they fall short, and how to get the best deal.
The Golden Rule of Agencies
Always work with 2-3 agencies simultaneously.Different agencies may offer the same assignment at different rates. The agency's margin (the difference between what the facility pays and what you receive) typically ranges from 20-35%. Ask for the bill rate — agencies that won't share it are hiding a fat margin.
NorthStar Anesthesia
CRNA-focused (anesthesia only)
$120-$165/hr
Strengths
- Anesthesia-only — they understand the specialty
- Large facility network
- W2 and 1099 options
- Good credentialing support
- CRNA leadership in management
Watch Out For
- Some contracts have exclusivity clauses
- Benefits package varies by assignment
- Rate negotiation can be rigid on some contracts
Our take: One of the few agencies focused exclusively on anesthesia. Their recruiters actually understand CRNA practice, which matters when matching you to assignments.
Aya Healthcare
Large multi-specialty (strong CRNA division)
$115-$155/hr
Strengths
- Massive facility network (3,000+ hospitals)
- Strong technology platform
- Good benefits for W2 travelers
- Transparent pay packages online
- 24/7 support
Watch Out For
- Large agency = less personal attention
- CRNA is one of many specialties
- Some recruiters don't understand anesthesia specifics
Our take: Best for CRNAs who want volume of options and a polished technology platform. Their online portal is one of the best in the industry for browsing assignments.
AMN Healthcare / Locum Leaders
Large multi-specialty
$110-$150/hr
Strengths
- Largest staffing company in healthcare
- Access to every major hospital system
- Corporate stability
- Good insurance options for W2
Watch Out For
- Bureaucratic — large company feel
- Rate transparency varies by recruiter
- Credentialing can be slow
- Less flexibility on contract terms
Our take: Good for CRNAs who want stability and corporate-grade benefits. Less ideal if you want a personal relationship with your recruiter or maximum rate negotiation.
Weatherby Healthcare (CHG)
Locum tenens focused
$120-$160/hr
Strengths
- Strong locum focus (not travel nursing)
- Good for short-term assignments
- Malpractice coverage included (W2)
- Experienced CRNA recruiters
Watch Out For
- Fewer long-term travel assignments
- Smaller CRNA-specific network than anesthesia-only agencies
- Some geographic gaps
Our take: Best for true locum work (short-term coverage, 1-13 weeks) rather than extended travel assignments. Their malpractice coverage for W2 locums is solid.
Somnia Anesthesia
Anesthesia management + staffing
$105-$145/hr
Strengths
- Anesthesia-specific management company
- Integrated staffing (permanent + locum)
- Facility relationships
- Career advancement within Somnia network
Watch Out For
- Some contracts are management-company style (less flexibility)
- Pay rates on the lower end for locum
- Non-compete clauses in some contracts
Our take: Better for CRNAs looking for a long-term relationship with a management company than for pure locum/travel work. Read the contract carefully — management company terms differ from pure staffing.
Gaswork / Anesthesia Staffing Consultants
CRNA job board + staffing
Varies (job board model)
Strengths
- Largest CRNA-specific job board
- Direct facility postings (skip the recruiter)
- Both permanent and locum listings
- Free to browse
Watch Out For
- Job board model = less support than full-service agency
- Quality of postings varies
- Some listings are outdated
- No credentialing support
Our take: Start here for research — see what's available in your target market. Then decide whether to apply directly or go through an agency for credentialing support.
Questions to Ask Every Agency
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