Physician Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Iowa

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 Iowa.

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Iowa, known as the Hawkeye State, has a rich and fascinating history. In the late 1600s, French explorers like Marquette and Joliet documented Native American accounts of the region. Until the early 19th century, Iowa was exclusively occupied by Native Americans and a few European traders, with loose political control by France and Spain. After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, Iowa became part of the United States. However, uncontested U.S. control occurred only after the War of 1812 and a series of treaties that eliminated Indian claims on the state. Iowa was admitted to the union as the 29th state on December 28, 1846. Its gently rolling landscape extends westward from the Mississippi River, forming a bridge between eastern forests and western grasslands. Iowa is known for its rich history and agriculture, and is truly a hidden gem in the U.S.

• Take a visit to Iowa City, Iowa and visit the University of Iowa, home of the Hawkeyes. This bustling college town is home to a vibrant nightlife, plenty of dining and entertainment, and also serves as the state’s capital. 
• Located in Dyersville, Iowa, the Field of Dreams is a century-old Lansing family farm where baseball still ranks as a favorite pastime for all ages. Carved from a cornfield, this iconic baseball diamond became famous through the movie “Field of Dreams.” Tours of the inside of the Farm House, a retail store, and concessions stand await visitors. 
• Found in Madrid, Iowa, the High Trestle Trail Bridge is a photogenic bridge that spans the Des Moines River. Walk or bike across this impressive structure and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

• Des Moines, Iowa to Omaha, Nebraska: Approximately 125 miles; around 2 to 2.5 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to Minneapolis, Minnesota: Roughly 240 miles; about 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to Kansas City, Missouri: Around 190 miles; approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to Chicago, Illinois: About 320 miles; approximately 4.5 to 5 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to St. Louis, Missouri: Approximately 260 miles; around 4 to 4.5 hours by car.

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

In Iowa, physicians play a crucial role in signing Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms, which outline patients’ end-of-life care preferences. Physicians initiate the process, assess the patient’s condition and prognosis, and obtain informed consent. They document the patient’s preferences and medical orders on the POLST form, ensuring that patients’ wishes are accurately reflected. Physicians collaborate with other healthcare professionals to implement the POLST form and provide ongoing support to the patient and their family. 

Can Physicians Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Iowa?

In Iowa, physicians are authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders based on the Iowa Code’s definition of a DNR order. The process involves assessing the patient’s condition, discussing the order with the patient or their legal representative, obtaining informed consent, and placing the order in the patient’s medical record. DNR orders are crucial for end-of-life care planning, allowing patients to make informed decisions and ensure their wishes are respected.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physicians in Iowa?

In Iowa, licensed physicians must complete 40 CME credit hours over a two-year licensure cycle to renew their practice licenses. Physicians fulfill CME requirements through various educational activities, such as attending conferences and workshops, enrolling in online courses, and reviewing medical literature. CME fosters continuous learning and professional development, promotes patient safety, and contributes to public trust in the medical profession. By fulfilling CME requirements, physicians in Iowa comply with state regulations and engage in a process of continuous self-improvement to provide high-quality, evidence-based patient care.