Dentist Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Idaho

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 Idaho.

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Idaho, known as the “Gem State,” is located in the Pacific Northwest and became the 43rd U.S. state on July 3rd, 1890. The state boasts a rich history tied to its native tribes, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and determined pioneers on the Oregon Trail. Idaho is famous for its agricultural production, including the cultivation of its renowned potatoes. The state also offers a diverse range of natural resources such as timber, mineral deposits, and an abundance of rivers suitable for trout production. Notable landmarks in Idaho include the Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls and Lake Pend Oreille, the state’s largest and deepest lake. 

By combining its rich history, diverse natural resources, and various recreational opportunities, Idaho offers an exciting and unique work and lifestyle experience for those looking to be a part of this magnificent state.

• Visit Boise, the capital and largest city in Idaho, with a population of 190,000, known for its vibrant culture and history tied to the Oregon Trail.
• Explore Coeur d’Alene, Driggs, McCall, Sandpoint, and Sun Valley, which are popular destinations offering a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.

• Witness the breathtaking Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” and the deep Hells Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon

• Experience the state’s diverse landscape, from emerald green hillsides in the panhandle to jagged peaks in central Idaho and the wide open vistas of the Snake River Plain in southern Idaho.
• Discover the state’s rich history by visiting historical sites and museums, including those related to the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Oregon Trail.

• Boise, Idaho to Salt Lake City, Utah: Approximately 340 miles; around 5 to 6 hours by car.
• Boise, Idaho to Portland, Oregon: Roughly 340 miles; about 5 to 6 hours by car. 
• Boise, Idaho to Seattle, Washington: Around 500 miles; approximately 7.5 to 8.5 hours by car.
• Boise, Idaho to Reno, Nevada: About 420 miles; approximately 6.5 to 7.5 hours by car.
• Boise, Idaho to Missoula, Montana: Approximately 350 miles; around 6 to 7 hours by car. 

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Idaho?

Dentists in Idaho possess full practice authority, allowing them to provide comprehensive dental care without requiring referrals. The Idaho State Board of Dentistry regulates the scope of practice for dentists, including education, licensure, and continuing education requirements. Full practice authority has benefited both patients and the dental profession in Idaho, with patients having access to comprehensive care from a single provider and dentists able to deliver high-quality services. This autonomy has also attracted and retained dentists in the state, contributing to a robust dental workforce.

What are the Licensing Requirements for Dentists in Idaho?

The state of Idaho has specific educational requirements for individuals seeking to practice dentistry within its borders. To be eligible for licensure, applicants must possess a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree. These degrees must be obtained from a university-based dental education program that has received accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The CODA is recognized as the accrediting body for dental education programs in the United States, ensuring that they meet established standards of quality and rigor. The D.D.S. and D.M.D. degrees typically involve four years of academic coursework and clinical training, providing graduates with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to diagnose and treat dental conditions effectively. By requiring dentists to have a CODA-accredited degree, the state of Idaho aims to ensure the competence and qualifications of dental professionals practicing in the state, ultimately contributing to the delivery of high-quality dental care to the public.

What are Dentists Authorized to Prescribe in Idaho?

In Idaho, dentists have independent and unlimited prescriptive authority, allowing them to prescribe medications, including controlled substances, without requiring a co-signature or supervision from another healthcare professional. This authority acknowledges the specialized training and knowledge that dentists possess and empowers them to make informed decisions about appropriate medication regimens for their patients, enhancing comprehensive oral healthcare services. Dentists’ understanding of oral anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology enables them to prescribe medications effectively, including antibiotics, analgesics, anti-inflammatories, and sedatives. The unlimited aspect of their prescriptive authority allows them to determine the dosage, frequency, and duration of medication therapy based on individual patient needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and minimizing adverse effects. This independent authority is a testament to dentists’ professional competence and the recognition of their vital role in healthcare, promoting seamless patient care and overall oral health and well-being.

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Idaho?

The facility’s bylaws determine the composition of medical staff in the state of Idaho. These bylaws, which are essentially the rules and regulations that govern the facility, outline the criteria for the selection, appointment, and responsibilities of the medical staff members.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists in Idaho?

Idaho mandates dentists to complete 30 continuing education (CE) hours every two years to maintain their knowledge and skills up-to-date. The Idaho State Board of Dentistry oversees and enforces this requirement. CE hours can be obtained through conferences, workshops, online courses, self-study programs, or research projects. The deadline to fulfill the requirement is December 31st of every odd-numbered year. Failure to meet this requirement may result in disciplinary action. This requirement ensures that dentists provide their patients with the highest quality of care and demonstrates their commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.