Dentist Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Illinois

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 Illinois.

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Illinois, known as “The Prairie State,” has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The land was home to Native American tribes, including the Miami and the Illiniwek, before the arrival of European explorers. In 1673, French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet were the first Europeans to reach the area. After various colonial transitions, Illinois became the 21st state of the United States in 1818.

Illinois is home to the historic city of Chicago. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 led to the city’s reconstruction, transforming it into a modern metropolis with the world’s first skyscrapers. The state’s name is derived from the Native American tribe that inhabited the region, and its nickname, “The Prairie State,” reflects its once vast prairie grasslands. Illinois offers a blend of history, nature, and fun activities, making it an exciting place to live and work

• Discover the city of Chicago and enjoy the beautiful skyline, delicious food like deep dish pizza, Chicago style hotdogs, endless entertainment, and stunning location right on Lake Michigan. 
• Explore the Shawnee Hills region in southern Illinois with its higher elevations, rivers, and forests. Observe diverse wildlife such as black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, and the state bird, the northern cardinal.
• Visit the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum to delve into the history of the iconic Route 66.
• Visit Abraham Lincoln’s home and tomb in Springfield, Illinois, and learn more about the life of the 16th president of the United States.

• Chicago, Illinois to Indianapolis, Indiana: Approximately 185 miles; around 3 to 3.5 hours by car.
• Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri: Roughly 300 miles; about 4.5 to 5 hours by car.
• Chicago, Illinois to Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Around 90 miles; approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
• Chicago, Illinois to Detroit, Michigan: About 280 miles; approximately 4 to 4.5 hours by car.
• Chicago, Illinois to Minneapolis, Minnesota: Approximately 410 miles; around 6 to 7 hours by car.

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Illinois?

Dentists in Illinois have comprehensive practice authority, allowing them to perform various dental procedures. Their services range from oral examinations and cleanings to more complex procedures like root canals, tooth extractions, and implant placement. Illinois dentists are committed to delivering high-quality oral healthcare to their patients by staying informed about the latest dental techniques and technologies.

What are the Licensing Requirements for Dentists in Illinois?

The state of Illinois mandates educational requirements for those pursuing dentistry. Individuals must hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from a university-based dental program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). CODA evaluates programs for curriculum, faculty, facilities, and clinical experiences. Both D.D.S. and D.M.D. degrees require extensive coursework and supervised clinical experiences. Illinois aims to ensure dentists’ competence and protect public health through these requirements.

What are Dentists Authorized to Prescribe in Illinois?

Dentists in Illinois have unlimited and independent prescriptive authority, meaning they can prescribe medications without needing a collaborative practice agreement with another healthcare provider. Their authority covers various medications, including controlled substances and antibiotics. Dentists must complete continuing education in pharmacology and adhere to regulations governing controlled substance prescribing. This prescriptive authority reflects the recognition of dentists as highly trained professionals capable of making informed decisions about medications. It allows dentists to provide comprehensive oral healthcare services and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure the best patient care.

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Illinois?

In the state of Illinois, the composition of medical staff within healthcare facilities is not arbitrarily decided. Instead, it is determined by a set of rules and regulations known as facility bylaws. These bylaws are essentially a legal document that governs the operation of the facility and outlines the responsibilities and privileges of the medical staff.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists in Illinois?

In Illinois, dentists are required to complete 48 continuing education (CE) hours to renew their license. This requirement is in place to ensure that dentists stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in dentistry and maintain their skills. The CE hours can be earned through a variety of activities, including attending conferences, taking courses, and reading journals. Dentists are required to keep track of their CE hours and submit a renewal application to the ISDS every two years. Failure to comply with the CE requirement may result in disciplinary action, including fines or suspension of their license. The CE requirement is an important part of ensuring that dentists in Illinois are providing their patients with the highest quality of care.