Dentist Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Mississippi

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 Mississippi.

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A state steeped in history and cultural richness, Mississippi is a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Mississippi joined the Union as the 20th state in 1817 and gets its name from the Mississippi River, which forms its western border. The state served as a battleground of the Civil Rights Movement during the mid-20th century. With over 63% of the state being covered in forests, it is truly a beautiful state with plenty of activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy.

The state’s culture is vibrant and unique, with a mix of African American, European American, and Native American influences reflected in its music, food, and festivals. Mississippi offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, a strong job market, and excellent schools, making it a great place to live, work, and play.

• Visit the birthplace of Elvis Presley! Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, where you can visit a museum honoring the life and legacy the late rock and roll legend. 
• Relax and unwind at Biloxi Beach in Biloxi Mississippi. This beautiful beach is the perfect place to swim, build sand castles, or enjoy and walk down the beach. Make sure you visit the Biloxi Lighthouse- this historical sight is worth the visit! 
• Take a trip to Vicksburg National Military Park, honoring the Battle of Vicksburg, which was fought during the American Civil War. 

• Jackson, Mississippi to New Orleans, Louisiana: Approximately 175 miles; around 3 to 3.5 hours by car.
• Jackson, Mississippi to Memphis, Tennessee: Roughly 210 miles; about 3.5 to 4 hours by car. 
• Jackson, Mississippi to Mobile, Alabama: Around 160 miles; approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car. 
• Jackson, Mississippi to Birmingham, Alabama: About 245 miles; approximately 4 to 4.5 hours by car. 
• Jackson, Mississippi to Little Rock, Arkansas: Approximately 220 miles; around 3.5 to 4 hours by car.

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Mississippi?

Dentists in Mississippi enjoy full practice authority, granting them the autonomy to perform a wide range of oral healthcare procedures without the need for direct supervision by other healthcare professionals. This comprehensive scope of practice enables dentists in Mississippi to provide a full spectrum of dental services, from routine cleanings and fillings to complex restorative procedures such as root canals and implant placement. With this expanded authority, dentists in Mississippi are equipped to address a diverse range of oral health needs and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. The full practice authority granted to dentists in Mississippi not only enhances access to comprehensive dental care but also empowers dentists to make independent clinical decisions, leading to improved patient outcomes and overall oral health.

What are the Licensing Requirements for Dentists in Mississippi?

The state of Mississippi has specific educational requirements for individuals seeking licensure to practice dentistry. One of these requirements is that the applicant must hold a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree from a university-based dental education program accredited by CODA. CODA is a recognized accrediting agency for dental education programs in the United States and ensures that dental education programs meet certain standards of quality. To meet the educational requirements for licensure in Mississippi, an applicant must have graduated from a CODA-accredited dental education program and pass the National Board Dental Examinations and the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners exam.

What are Dentists Authorized to Prescribe in Mississippi?

Mississippi dentists have unlimited and independent prescriptive authority, meaning they can prescribe any medication they deem necessary without needing co-signatures from other healthcare professionals. This autonomy is unique to a few states and reflects the Mississippi Board of Dentistry’s trust in its licensees’ competence. Factors contributing to this decision include Mississippi’s rural nature, where dentists often play a vital role in providing healthcare services, and the state’s strong dental education system. The Board has established guidelines and regulations to ensure responsible use of this authority, such as requiring continuing education courses on pharmacology and regular audits of prescribing practices. 

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Mississippi?

Facility bylaws in Mississippi regulate the composition of medical staff in healthcare facilities. Developed by the governing board and approved by regulatory authorities, these bylaws ensure high-quality medical care and a safe work environment for medical staff. They cover topics such as qualifications, privileges, appointments, responsibilities, performance evaluation, and disciplinary procedures. Bylaws are legally binding for all medical staff members and are crucial for the smooth operation of healthcare facilities and the protection of patients’ and medical staff’s rights.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, dentists are required to complete 20 continuing education (CE) hours every two years to maintain their licenses. This requirement is overseen by the Mississippi State Board of Dentistry and helps ensure that dentists remain up-to-date with the latest advances in dental medicine. The CE hours can be earned through a variety of activities, including attending conferences, seminars, and online courses. Dentists must keep a record of their CE hours and submit it to the Board of Dentistry every two years. The CE requirement is an important part of ensuring that dentists provide their patients with the highest quality of care.