Physician Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Massachusetts

Our recruiters and staffing specialists do not expect you, the provider, to know ins-and-outs of every state in the country. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled information from TripAdvisor, state government pages, and tourist information sources to give you a glimpse into life in Massachusetts .

Click here for locum tenens physician jobs in Massachusetts!

In the late 1600s, the Mayflower arrived in present-day Massachusetts. They set up shop in Plymouth Colony, where they laid the groundwork for what would become the Bay State. Fast-forward to the 17th century, and the Massachusetts Bay Colony took center stage. Puritans flocked here, establishing a bustling hub of trade, innovation, and culture. Ships sailed to the West Indies and Europe, weaving a web of commerce that would shape the state’s destiny.

The American Revolutionary War ignited in Massachusetts, with the Boston Tea Party of 1773 where colonists defiantly dump British tea into the harbor, a bold act of rebellion against unfair taxation. Massachusetts has something for everyone, from bustling cities, a beautiful coastline, and a rich history, this state is a perfect place to live, work, and play!

• Stroll through the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, where history whispers among the trees. It’s the perfect spot for picnics, people-watching, and enjoying the beautiful city, 
• Baseball fans, rejoice! Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox, is hallowed ground in the heart of Boston. Catch a game, indulge in ballpark food, and soak in the electric atmosphere. Don’t forget to admire the iconic Green Monster wall!
• Visit the legendary rock in Physmath, Massachusetts where the Pilgrims supposedly stepped ashore. 
• Hop on a ferry from Cape Cod and explore Martha’s Vineyard! This idyllic island has sandy beaches, charming villages, and fresh seafood, making it the perfect summer destination. Grab a lobster roll, and enjoy! 

• Boston, Massachusetts to New York City, New York: Approximately 215 miles; around 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
• Boston, Massachusetts to Providence, Rhode Island: Roughly 50 miles; about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
• Boston, Massachusetts to Hartford, Connecticut: Around 100 miles; approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car. 
• Boston, Massachusetts to Portland, Maine: About 110 miles; approximately 2 to 2.5 hours by car. 
• Boston, Massachusetts to Concord, New Hampshire: Approximately 70 miles; around 1 to 1.5 hours by car.

Given its rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and proximity to other major cities, working in Massachusetts offers an unparalleled opportunity for exploration, adventure, and personal growth.  Massachusetts is the perfect place for your next locum tenens nurse practitioner job. 

What is the Scope of Practice for Physicians in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, physicians have full practice authority, meaning they can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications without supervision. Full practice authority allows physicians to provide comprehensive care and make decisions without consulting other healthcare providers, leading to more efficient and effective patient care.

Can Physicians Sign Death Certificates in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts law authorizes physicians to sign death certificates, determining the cause of death and reporting it to health authorities. The certificate includes personal details, date and time of death, place of death, and cause of death. Physicians work with funeral directors to ensure proper completion and submission. The Department of Public Health oversees the process and conducts quality assurance reviews.

Does Massachusetts Recognize Physicians as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Massachusetts recognizes the crucial role that physicians play in providing primary care. Through laws and administrative codes, the state acknowledges and supports the central position of physicians as primary care providers. Physicians in Massachusetts have the primary responsibility to provide preventive care services, manage chronic diseases, and adhere to regulations outlined in the state’s administrative codes. By establishing this framework, Massachusetts aims to ensure individuals have access to high-quality and comprehensive healthcare services.

Can Physicians Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, physicians with proper registration and adherence to regulations can prescribe Schedule II drugs—controlled substances with a high potential for abuse but accepted medical uses—to their patients. To do so, physicians must evaluate patients, obtain informed consent, and monitor them closely for signs of abuse or addiction. They must also provide information about the drug’s risks and benefits and ensure safe usage. Prescribing Schedule II drugs is a serious responsibility, requiring physicians to take necessary precautions for safe and appropriate use.

Do Physicians Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Massachusetts?

Physicians in Massachusetts are eligible for medical staff membership, allowing them to practice medicine in the state’s hospitals and healthcare facilities. To qualify, physicians must meet criteria such as having a valid medical license, completing an accredited residency program, and passing a background check. Medical staff membership provides physicians with privileges to practice medicine in a specific facility, enables them to deliver high-quality care to patients, and keeps them updated on medical advances. It also fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals and contributes to the overall quality of healthcare in Massachusetts.

Can Physicians Order Physical Therapy in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts recognizes physical therapy as an essential component of healthcare, granting physicians the legal authority to prescribe it for their patients. This legislative measure acknowledges the distinct and valuable role physical therapists play in restoring and maintaining individuals’ physical function. It simplifies the process for patients seeking physical therapy services, eliminating additional referrals and reducing delays. The legal framework established in Massachusetts sets a precedent for other states, promoting the integration of physical therapy into the healthcare system.

Can Physicians Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Massachusetts?

Physicians in Massachusetts are authorized to certify disability for parking placards, ensuring individuals with disabilities have access to the parking accommodations they need. This authorization helps ensure individuals with disabilities can participate fully in community life and have equal opportunities.

Can Physicians Sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST Forms in Massachusetts? 

In Massachusetts, physicians can sign Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms to document patients’ end-of-life medical treatment wishes when they cannot make their own decisions. POLST forms are standardized, offer treatment options, and patient choices are legally binding. Physicians must discuss POLST forms with patients to ensure they understand their implications. Patients can change their minds about their POLST forms as long as they are competent to make decisions. These forms are crucial in respecting patients’ end-of-life wishes, preventing unwanted medical treatment, and providing peace of mind.

Can Physicians Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, physicians can legally execute Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders for their patients. DNR orders are recognized and respected by healthcare facilities in Massachusetts, providing a framework for end-of-life care that emphasizes patient autonomy, dignity, and quality of life.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physicians in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, physicians must complete 50 Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours every two years to maintain their medical license. This requirement ensures that physicians stay up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and best practices. CME activities can include attending conferences, workshops, seminars, online courses, or individual study. The CME requirement promotes lifelong learning, enhances professional competence, and improves patient care outcomes. Completing CME hours provides benefits such as enhanced patient care, professional growth, regulatory compliance, and networking opportunities.