Whilst the NHS continues to face workforce pressures, the private healthcare sector is growing at pace. Independent hospitals, specialist clinics, and private healthcare providers across the UK are increasingly seeking skilled Allied Health Professionals to meet rising patient demand and maintain the highest standards of care.
For many AHPs, this growth has opened the door to a new world of opportunity, offering flexible working patterns, improved work-life balance, and greater earning potential.
Why AHPs are in demand across the private sector
Private healthcare providers are expanding their services to meet a growing need for diagnostics, rehabilitation, and preventative care. This has led to increased demand for experienced professionals across a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy in rehabilitation and recovery units
- Radiography and Sonography in private imaging centres
- Pharmacy roles in clinical trials and hospital dispensaries
- Biomedical Scientists in diagnostic and pathology laboratories
- Speech and Language Therapy in specialist clinics
Private hospitals and clinics value the expertise, adaptability, and clinical excellence that AHPs bring from NHS settings. Their skills, professionalism, and patient-centred approach make them highly sought-after across the private healthcare market.
How private sector work differs from the NHS
Working in the private healthcare sector offers distinct advantages for AHPs looking for variety and growth.
- Greater flexibility: Choose assignments that suit your schedule, preferred location, and lifestyle.
- Varied settings: Work across independent hospitals, high-end rehabilitation centres, and private specialist clinics.
- Enhanced earning potential: Benefit from competitive pay rates and locum opportunities with autonomy over your workload.
- Career progression: Gain exposure to new care models, advanced technologies, and leadership roles.
For many, private healthcare provides the chance to broaden skills, experience different clinical environments, and enjoy a more balanced way of working while maintaining the same level of patient impact found within the NHS.
Making the transition to private work
If you are considering expanding your AHP career into the private sector, preparation is key.
1. Review your compliance documents
Ensure your professional registration, DBS certificate, and occupational health records are current. Private hospitals and clinics maintain governance standards equivalent to NHS frameworks.
2. Stay open to flexibility
Locum and fixed-term roles can be an excellent way to explore different private healthcare environments before settling into a long-term position.
3. Partner with a specialist recruiter
Working with an agency that specialises in Allied Health recruitment will give you access to exclusive private sector roles, competitive contracts, and expert guidance on compliance and pay models.
Why work with Hunter Gatherer AHP
At Hunter Gatherer AHP, we work in partnership with private hospitals, community healthcare providers, and independent clinics across the UK and overseas.
Our consultants are experts in AHP recruitment, with dedicated teams covering Pharmacy, Therapies, Radiography, Psychology, and Biomedical Science. We understand what matters most to Allied Health Professionals and deliver opportunities that match your career goals and lifestyle.
Whether you are looking for short-term locum flexibility or a long-term private position, we can help you make the transition with confidence.
Ready to explore private healthcare opportunities?
The private healthcare sector offers AHPs the chance to grow professionally, earn competitively and enjoy true flexibility.
Speak to our AHP consultants today to find out how we can help you take the next step in your career.