Dentist Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Hawaii

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 Hawaii.

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Hawaii, the 50th state of the United States, has a rich history dating back to the arrival of the first known residents over 1,500 years ago. It was once a kingdom ruled by royal leaders until it became a U.S. territory in 1898 and was later named a state in 1959. The islands are home to the only royal building on U.S. soil, the Iolani Palace, and are known for their unique cultural traditions such as surfing and hula dancing. The state’s name may have been derived from the legendary figure Hawai’i Loa, and it is famously nicknamed “The Aloha State,” with “aloha” meaning both hello and goodbye in Hawaiian. 

Hawaii’s unique history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences make it an enticing destination for work and leisure. Whether it’s the allure of the beaches, the thrill of outdoor adventures, or the rich cultural heritage, Hawaii has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Explore the stunning beaches with uniquely-colored sands, from white to green, red, pink, and black. Visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island to witness the impressive Kilauea volcano, which has been erupting for over 30 years, expanding Hawaii by over 40 acres annually.

• Engage in a variety of outdoor activities including hiking through dense tropical rainforests, experiencing stunning waterfalls, snorkeling near coral reefs, and even making a snowball atop Mauna Kea Volcano on Hawaii Island.

• Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by learning about the history of the islands, visiting historic sites such as the Iolani Palace, and experiencing traditional Hawaiian dance through the hula.
• Witness the diverse wildlife of Hawaii, from native birds like the nene and pueo, to marine life including monk seals, hawksbill turtles, and humpback whales.

Hawaii is an isolated state in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so it doesn’t have direct road connections to other cities or states. However, if you’re considering travel by air: 

• Honolulu, Hawaii to Los Angeles, California: Approximately 2,500 miles; around 5 to 6 hours by flight.
• Honolulu, Hawaii to San Francisco, California: Roughly 2,400 miles; about 5 to 6 hours by flight. 
• Honolulu, Hawaii to Seattle, Washington: Around 2,700 miles; approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours by flight.

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Hawaii?

Dentists in Hawaii have full practice authority, allowing them to perform a wide range of procedures without supervision. This can result in more efficient and effective care, as well as a wider range of services for patients, especially those in underserved areas. Advantages of full practice authority for dentists include more efficient and timely care, a wider range of services, and the autonomy to make all treatment decisions for patients. Overall, full practice authority for dentists in Hawaii is seen as a positive step that can improve access and quality of oral healthcare for all patients.

What are the Licensing Requirements for Dentists in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, professionals seeking to practice dentistry must hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This ensures that dentists in Hawaii have received a high-quality education meeting established standards of quality in terms of curriculum, faculty, clinical facilities, and overall educational experience. This requirement aims to safeguard the public’s oral health and well-being by ensuring that dentists are competent and ethical in their dental care.

What are Dentists Authorized to Prescribe in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, dentists have comprehensive prescriptive authority, allowing them to prescribe medications and substances independently. This authority is based on their professional judgment and patients’ needs. The Hawaii Dental Practice Act provides the legal framework for this autonomy. Dentists must undergo specific training and education to obtain and maintain their prescriptive authority. This unrestricted authority enhances the quality of oral healthcare services, enabling dentists to respond promptly to patients’ needs and minimize referrals. However, dentists are still bound by ethical and legal standards when prescribing medications.

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, the composition of medical personnel in healthcare facilities is governed by a set of rules and regulations known as facility bylaws. These bylaws serve as a legal document that outlines the operational procedures of the facility and defines the roles and privileges of the medical staff.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists in Hawaii?

The Hawaii Dental Association (HDA) mandates dentists to complete 38 continuing education (CE) hours every two years as a prerequisite for license renewal. The 38 CE hour requirement ensures dentists’ competence in providing high-quality, safe, and effective dental care to patients in Hawaii.