Physician Assistant Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in New Jersey

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 New Jersey.

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New Jersey, the “Garden State”, might be small, but it’s a feisty mix of urban energy and surprising natural beauty.  Beyond the iconic boardwalks and bustling cities, you’ll discover a landscape dotted with Revolutionary War battlefields, the stomping grounds of music legends like Bruce Springsteen, and surprisingly lush farmland – that’s where those famous Jersey tomatoes come from!  

Don’t be fooled by the ‘Jersey Shore’ stereotypes or its reputation for being an industrial hub.  From historic small towns to the vibrant arts scene of Asbury Park, New Jersey is packed with personality. Oh, and did we mention the legendary diners? They’re not just a place to eat, they’re a cultural institution!

• Beaches and Boardwalks: Immerse yourself in the classic Jersey Shore experience, with miles of sandy beaches, bustling boardwalks lined with amusement parks, arcade games, and food vendors. Enjoy exhilarating rides, play ski-ball or air hockey, indulge in sweet treats like fudge or cotton candy, and create lasting memories amidst the vibrant atmosphere.
• Revolutionary History: Travel back in time to the Revolutionary War era by visiting historical battlefields like Princeton and Morristown, where pivotal events unfolded. Explore Thomas Edison’s laboratory in Menlo Park, where the renowned inventor revolutionized technology with his groundbreaking creations. Immerse yourself in the state’s rich history and learn about the significant role it played in shaping the nation.
• Outdoor Escapes: Escape to the scenic beauty of New Jersey’s natural wonders. Embark on a hiking adventure in the picturesque Delaware Water Gap, where cascading waterfalls and rugged trails await. Discover the unique ecosystem of the Pine Barrens, featuring diverse flora and fauna, and experience the serenity of camping under the stars. Engage in exciting watersports like kayaking, canoeing, or fishing in the state’s many rivers and lakes.
• Cities & Entertainment: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of New Jersey’s urban centers. Explore the culinary delights and artistic expression in cities like Jersey City, Hoboken, and Newark, where diverse neighborhoods offer a multitude of dining options, museums, galleries, and entertainment venues. Try your luck at the casinos of Atlantic City, where the excitement never ends, and enjoy world-class shows, fine dining, and luxurious accommodations.

• New York: New Jersey shares its northern border with New York. The distance from central New Jersey to the New York state border is negligible, especially if you’re near the northern parts of the state. 
• Pennsylvania:  New Jersey’s western border is formed by the Delaware River, with Pennsylvania on the other side. The distance from central New Jersey to the Pennsylvania border is approximately 60 miles. 
• Delaware: While a small portion of New Jersey’s southwestern tip borders Delaware, most of the border is across the Delaware Bay. The distance from central New Jersey to the Delaware border is roughly 80 miles.

What is the Scope of Practice for Physician Assistants in New Jersey?

Physician assistants (PAs) in New Jersey have full practice authority, allowing them to assess patients, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and perform specific procedures without direct physician supervision. This autonomy enables PAs to offer comprehensive healthcare services to patients of all ages. PAs are highly trained professionals with master’s degrees and national board certification. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, providing a wide range of services. The benefits of full practice authority for PAs in New Jersey include increased access to healthcare, improved quality of care, and reduced costs.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Death Certificates in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, physician assistants can sign death certificates if they have personally attended and are familiar with the cause of death of the deceased patient. They must be familiar with the relevant laws and regulations and use their best judgment when signing death certificates. Death certificates are legal documents used to establish the fact of death, determine the cause of death, and track mortality statistics.

Does New Jersey Recognize Physician Assistants as Primary Care Providers? 

In New Jersey, the recognition of physician assistants (PAs) as primary care providers is established through legislative and regulatory measures. PAs are authorized to perform various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including physical examinations, ordering and interpreting laboratory tests, prescribing medications, and developing patient care plans. As primary care providers, PAs can establish independent patient-provider relationships and collaborate with physicians to provide quality healthcare services. These measures ensure that PAs are recognized as valuable healthcare team members contributing to quality healthcare services in the state.

Can Physician Assistants Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in New Jersey?

Yes, physician assistants can prescribe schedule II drugs in New Jersey.

Do Physician Assistants Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, physician assistants (PAs) are recognized and eligible for medical staff membership. PAs who meet the criteria set by the medical staff bylaws can apply for membership. Once granted, PAs become integral members of the healthcare team, with privileges and responsibilities aligned with their education, training, and experience. PAs participate in patient care, including evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and management. Their inclusion in medical staff membership acknowledges their professional capabilities and contributions to improving patient outcomes. It also allows PAs to participate more fully in decision-making, enhance communication among healthcare providers, and advocate for patient-centered care.

Can Physician Assistants Order Physical Therapy in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, physician assistants (PAs) have the full authority to order physical therapy for their patients without the need for a physician’s referral. This provision acknowledges PAs as skilled healthcare providers capable of making independent clinical decisions. The ability of PAs to order physical therapy directly benefits patients by providing more efficient and timely access to rehabilitation services and streamlining the healthcare delivery process. PAs work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in New Jersey?

In the state of New Jersey, physicians assistants (PAs) are certified to authorize disability for parking placards, playing a crucial role in ensuring individuals with disabilities receive the necessary accommodations. PAs possess the knowledge and skills to evaluate applicants’ medical conditions and determine if they meet the criteria for disability parking. Their certification process involves reviewing medical records, conducting physical examinations, and assessing functional limitations. Once certified, the applicant can obtain a disability parking placard, providing them with designated parking spaces near entrances and exits of public facilities. Beyond this, PAs provide a wide range of healthcare services in New Jersey, including diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care.

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

In the state of New Jersey, PAs are legally authorized to sign Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms, which outline a patient’s preferences for end-of-life care. POLST forms are used to ensure that a patient’s wishes are respected when they are unable to make decisions about their own care. The form must be completed in accordance with state regulations and must be reviewed and updated regularly. POLST forms are an important part of end-of-life care planning and help ensure that patients receive the care they want and deserve.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, physicians can legally sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, which instruct healthcare providers to withhold life-sustaining treatments in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. DNR orders can be a difficult decision for patients and their families but can provide peace of mind, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are respected at the end of life.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physician Assistants in New Jersey?

Physician assistants (PAs) in New Jersey are required to complete 50 continuing education (CE) hours every two years to maintain their license. These hours can be earned through various activities like conferences, workshops, and online courses. The requirement ensures that PAs stay updated on medical advancements and best practices. The New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners (BME) enforces this requirement, and failure to meet it may result in disciplinary action. The CE hours must be earned within the two-year licensing period, with at least 25 hours in clinical topics. Documentation of CE hours must be maintained and submitted to the BME upon request. This requirement is crucial in ensuring that PAs provide safe and effective patient care.