Physician Assistant Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Florida

Imagine for a moment that you are stuck in traffic on your way to work, bored of the same monotonous routine, and looking to experience new scenery and culture. Then, your phone vibrates. It’s your Barton recruiter with the answer. They share a new listing with great pay, your dream schedule, and it will start at a time that fits your current life. The only problem is that it is in Florida which you know very little about. That’s where Barton comes in!

What You Need to Know About Florida as a Locum Tenens Physician Assistant?

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 Florida.

Click here for open physician jobs in Florida!

Florida: A Brief History

Florida, also known as “The Sunshine State,” has a rich history and a plethora of attractions that make it an enticing place to visit and work. Florida’s history dates back over 12,000 years when the first people inhabited the area. The state has been under Spanish, English, French, and Confederate rule before joining the United States as the 27th state in 1845. Notably, it was the site of the first permanent European settlement in the USA – St. Augustine, founded in 1565. Florida is a peninsula surrounded by water, offering diverse landscapes from hilly uplands to the famous Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys archipelago. 

With its rich history, diverse attractions, and an abundance of outdoor and cultural activities, Florida offers a compelling blend of opportunities for both leisure and work.

What is there to do and see in Florida?

  • With 1,200 miles of sandy beaches, Florida is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades National Park, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes
  • St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, offers a glimpse into Florida’s rich history. Visitors can explore the state’s history through its numerous cultural and historical landmarks and museums.
  • Florida is home to world-renowned attractions such as Disney World and Universal Studios, making it a hub for entertainment and family-friendly activities. 
  • Florida is a haven for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. with over 1,250 golf courses and a range of water-based activities like fishing, boating, and scuba diving. 

How close is Florida to other cities and states?

  • Miami, Florida to Orlando, Florida: Approximately 230 miles; around 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
  • Miami, Florida to Atlanta, Georgia: Roughly 660 miles; about 9.5 to 10 hours by car.
  • Miami, Florida to Tampa, Florida: Around 280 miles; approximately 4 to 4.5 hours by car.
  • Miami, Florida to New Orleans, Louisiana: About 670 miles; approximately 10 to 11 hours by car.
  • Miami, Florida to Jacksonville, Florida: Approximately 340 miles; around 5 to 6 hours by car.

Physician Assistant Scope of Practice In Florida

What is the Scope of Practice for Physician Assistants in Florida?

Physician assistants (PAs) in Florida have reduced practice authority. State law and/or regulation restrict the healthcare team and PAs’ ability to practice in at least one element of PA practice.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Death Certificates in Florida?

In Florida, physician assistants (PAs) are authorized to sign death certificates.

Does Florida Recognize Physician Assistants as Primary Care Providers? 

In the state of Florida, state law is unclear regarding whether PAs can act as primary care providers.

Can Physician Assistants Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Florida?

Yes, physician assistants can prescribe schedule II drugs in Florida.

Do Physician Assistants Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Florida?

In Florida, physician assistants (PAs) are eligible for medical staff membership if their hospital allows it.

Can Physician Assistants Order Physical Therapy in Florida?

In Florida, physician assistants (PAs) are authorized to order physical therapy for their patients.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Florida?

In Florida, certified physician assistants (PAs) are legally authorized to certify disability for parking placards. PAs are recognized as healthcare professionals who can evaluate and diagnose medical conditions that may qualify individuals for disability parking privileges. The authorization of PAs to certify disability for parking placards ensures that individuals with qualifying disabilities can access the parking accommodations they need.

Can Physician Assistants Sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST Forms in Florida? 

In Florida, PAs can sign Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms, which specify a patient’s end-of-life care preferences. PAs discuss these preferences with patients or their legal representatives before signing the form, which includes options like CPR, intubation, and mechanical ventilation. The form also covers pain management, comfort care, and religious support. POLST forms promote patient autonomy and facilitate open communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers, ensuring that end-of-life care is aligned with the patient’s wishes.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Florida?

Physician assistants in Florida are legally authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, medical directives instructing healthcare professionals not to perform CPR or other life-sustaining measures in case of cardiac or respiratory arrest. 

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physician Assistants in Florida?

Florida mandates physician assistants (PAs) to complete 100 continuing education (CE) hours every two years to renew their licenses. A minimum of 50 hours must be Category I CME, and 2 hours must be in medical error. An hour of CME on HIV/AIDs must be completed in the first license renewal, and 2 hours of CME on domestic violence must be completed every third renewal.

Find Your Next Physician Assistant Job with Barton

Barton coordinates your job search from start to finish!

1

TALK WITH A REP

We’ll schedule a phone consultation with a Barton Associates team member to discuss your interests, goals, and work history in order to get a sense of what you’re looking for in your next job.

Your Barton team will then go to work, compiling a list of open jobs in our extensive network that match your interests and skill set.

2

REVIEW YOUR OPTIONS

Once you’ve had a chance to evaluate your list of opportunities, your Barton rep will submit your information to facility you want to take an assignment at.

If there’s a match, we’ll work with the client manager on next steps.

3

START YOUR JOB!

Don’t worry! Barton Associates will handle licensing, credentialing, and travel arrangements before you arrive.

Your Barton rep will also work with your new facility to ensure you’re set up and ready to go on day one.

LEARN MORE

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