The Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Colorado

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 Colorado.

Click here for locum tenens healthcare provider jobs in Colorado!

Colorado officially became a state in 1876, earning the nickname the “Centennial State” due to its admission to the Union in the centennial year of the United States’ independence. Colorado’s history is steeped in the pioneering spirit of the American West, with tales of gold rushes, explorers, and settlers shaping the state’s identity. From the days of the Wild West to the modern era, Colorado has played a significant role in the development of the United States, making it a fascinating place to delve into the country’s past. 

Colorado’s mix of natural wonders, rich history, and proximity to other states makes it an inviting place to work and explore. Whether it’s the allure of its unique attractions or the promise of a vibrant urban lifestyle, Colorado offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for both work and play.

• Colorado is home to many natural wonders, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the stunning Garden of the Gods, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore and appreciate the state’s breathtaking landscapes.

• Whether it’s skiing in the world-renowned resorts of Aspen and Vail, whitewater rafting in the Arkansas River, or rock climbing in Eldorado Canyon, Colorado offers an abundance of thrilling outdoor activities for adrenaline junkies and sports enthusiasts alike. 
• Enjoy attractions such as Downtown Denver, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and the historic mining town of Telluride, ensuring that visitors can indulge in a vibrant urban setting, music, and history. 

• Denver, Colorado to Boulder, Colorado, is approximately 25 miles;around 30 to 45 minutes by car
• Denver, Colorado to Salt Lake City, Utah: Roughly 530 miles; about 8 to 9 hours by car.
• Denver, Colorado to Cheyenne, Wyoming: Approximately 100 miles; around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. 
• Denver, Colorado to Albuquerque, New Mexico: Approximately 450 miles; around 6.5 to 7 hours by car.

Given its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich history, and plentiful activities, working in Colorado offers an unparalleled opportunity for exploration, adventure, and personal growth.

What is the Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners in Colorado?

Nurse practitioners have full practice authority in the state of Colorado. This legal provision empowers NPs to perform a comprehensive array of healthcare services that are critical to patient care. Colorado law authorizes NPs to evaluate patients, diagnose, and prescribe medications and therapeutic measures. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Colorado?

The state of Colorado does not allow nurse practitioners to sign patient’s death certificates. Colorado only permits licensed physicians to sign death certificates. The responsibility of signing death certificates is strictly reserved for licensed physicians. Despite the broad scope of practice for other healthcare professionals in the state, including PAs and NPs, they are not authorized to sign death certificates.

Does Colorado Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Colorado, through its statutes and administrative codes, acknowledges the role of nurse practitioners as primary care providers. This recognition is a testament to the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery, where the traditional roles are being expanded to meet the increasing demand for primary care services.

Can Nurse Practitioners Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Colorado?

Nurse practitioners may prescribe drugs in Colorado as long as they’ve completed three years of clinical experience, they are on an advanced-practice registry, and there is a plan for responsible prescribing that’s been signed and reviewed by their mentor. 

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, 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.

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, nurse practitioners are granted full authority to order physical therapy for their patients. This is a significant aspect of their role in the healthcare system, allowing them to provide comprehensive care. A NP can assess a patient’s need for such a treatment, and then order it accordingly. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Colorado?

Yes! Nurse practitioners are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Colorado. NPs can assess a patient’s physical condition and determine whether their disability qualifies them for a parking placard.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST Forms in Colorado? 

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Colorado. These forms are designed to communicate a patient’s wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. They are typically used in situations where a patient has a serious illness or is near the end of life. The forms provide specific medical orders that are to be followed by healthcare providers, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are honored. 

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Colorado?

Nurse practitioners are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Colorado. DNR orders are typically signed by a physician after a detailed discussion with the patient or the patient’s healthcare proxy or legal guardian. This conversation involves a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s medical condition, prognosis, and personal wishes regarding end-of-life care.

What is the Scope of Practice for Physician Assistants in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, physician assistants (PAs) are granted full practice authority. This means that PAs have the autonomy to provide comprehensive medical care, including the ability to prescribe medications, without the direct supervision of a physician.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Death Certificates in Colorado?

No. The state of Colorado does not authorize physicians assistants to sign death certificates. The responsibility of signing death certificates is strictly reserved for licensed physicians. Despite the broad scope of practice for other healthcare professionals in the state, including PAs and NPs, they are not authorized to sign death certificates.

Does Colorado Recognize Physician Assistants as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Colorado, through its statutes and administrative codes, acknowledges the role of physician assistants as primary care providers. This recognition is a testament to the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery, where the traditional roles are being expanded to meet the increasing demand for primary care services.

What are the Continuing Medical Education Requirements for Physician Assistants in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, physician assistants are mandated by regulatory authorities to complete 100 Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours every two years. This requirement is part of the state’s commitment to ensure that PAs maintain and enhance their medical knowledge and skills over time.

Can Physician Assistants Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado,  physician assistants are granted the authority to prescribe Schedule II drugs. This is a significant responsibility, as Schedule II drugs are classified as such due to their high potential for abuse, which can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. However, this authority is not without its limitations. The prescribing of schedule II drugs must fall within the scope of practice of the supervising physicians.

Do Physician Assistants Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, 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.

Can Physician Assistants Order Physical Therapy in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, physician assistants are granted full authority to order physical therapy for their patients. This is a significant aspect of their role in the healthcare system, allowing them to provide comprehensive care. A PA can assess a patient’s need for such a treatment, and then order it accordingly. 

Can Physician Assistants Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Colorado?

Yes! Physician assistants are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Colorado. PAs can assess a patient’s physical condition and determine whether their disability qualifies them for a parking placard. 

Can Physician Assistants Sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST Forms in Colorado? 

Yes, PAs are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Colorado. These forms are designed to communicate a patient’s wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. They are typically used in situations where a patient has a serious illness or is near the end of life. The forms provide specific medical orders that are to be followed by healthcare providers, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are honored. 

Can Physician Assistants sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Colorado?

PAs are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Colorado. DNR orders are typically signed by a physician after a detailed discussion with the patient or the patient’s healthcare proxy or legal guardian. This conversation involves a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s medical condition, prognosis, and personal wishes regarding end-of-life care.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physician Assistants in Colorado?

In Colorado, physicians assistants are required to complete 100 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME). This is a mandatory requirement aimed at ensuring that PAs maintain their competence and learn about new and developing areas of their field.

What is the Scope of Practice for Physicians in Colorado?

Physicians have full practice authority in the state of Colorado. This means that they are legally permitted to provide a wide range of medical services without the need for supervision by another healthcare professional. This level of autonomy is granted to physicians due to their extensive education, training, and expertise in the field of medicine.

Can Physicians Sign Death Certificates in Colorado?

Yes, the state of Colorado solely permits licensed physicians to sign death certificates. The task of signing a death certificate requires a deep understanding of medical conditions and causes of death.  Their signature on the death certificate validates the information contained within and provides an authoritative confirmation of the circumstances surrounding the individual’s death.

Does Colorado Recognize Physicians as Primary Care Providers? 

Yes, Colorado state statute and/or administrative code recognizes physicians  as primary care providers. Physicians, as primary care providers, are often the first point of contact for patients within the healthcare system. They play a pivotal role in diagnosing and managing a wide range of health conditions, providing preventative care, and making referrals to specialists when necessary.

Can Physicians Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Colorado?

Yes, physicians are authorized to prescribe Schedule II drugs. Schedule II drugs, as classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, are substances that have a high potential for abuse, potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. They are expected to exercise their professional judgment to ensure these drugs are used appropriately and safely. This involves assessing the patient’s medical history, current health status, and potential risk factors before deciding to prescribe a Schedule II drug.

Do Physicians Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, 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.

Can Physicians Order Physical Therapy in Colorado?

Yes! Physicians have full authority to order physical therapy for patients in the state of Colorado. They can assess the patient’s condition, consider their medical history, and determine the potential benefits of physical therapy for their specific situation.

Can Physicians Sign Handicap Parking Permits Forms in Colorado?

Yes! Physicians are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Colorado. A parking placard for individuals with disabilities is a crucial tool that facilitates mobility and accessibility in daily life. It allows individuals with disabilities to use designated parking spots that are typically closer to building entrances, making it easier for them to access services and facilities.

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

Yes, physicians are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Colorado. These forms are critical documents that outline a patient’s preferences regarding their medical treatment, particularly for those with serious illnesses or towards the end of life. Their medical expertise and understanding of the patient’s condition and prognosis enable them to guide patients and their families in making informed decisions about life-sustaining treatments.

Can Physicians sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Colorado?

Physicians are authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Colorado. DNR orders are signed by a physician after a detailed discussion with the patient or the patient’s healthcare proxy or legal guardian. This conversation involves a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s medical condition, prognosis, and personal wishes regarding end-of-life care.

What are the Continuing Medical Education Requirements for Physicians in Colorado?

There are currently no CME requirements for physicians licensed to practice in Colorado. This means that physicians, after obtaining their initial licensure, are not obligated to participate in a specific number of CME hours to maintain their license. 

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Colorado?

Dentists have full practice authority in the state of Colorado. This legal provision empowers dentists to perform a comprehensive array of healthcare services that are critical to patient care. Colorado law authorizes dentist to evaluate patients, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications and therapeutic measures.

Can Dentists Sign Death Certificates in Colorado?

The state of Colorado does not allow dentists to sign patient’s death certificates. Colorado only permits physicians to sign death certificates. The responsibility of signing death certificates is strictly reserved for physicians.

Does Colorado Recognize Dentists as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Colorado, through its statutes and administrative codes, acknowledges the role of dentists as primary care providers. They play a pivotal role in diagnosing and managing a wide range of dental conditions, providing preventative care, and making referrals to specialists when necessary. This acknowledgment by the state of Colorado not only elevates the profession of dentistry but also ensures that residents have access to comprehensive health care. 

Can Dentists Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, dentists are given a significant level of autonomy and responsibility in their practice. They have the authority to prescribe any drug necessary to the proper practice of dentistry. This means that they can provide their patients with the necessary medications for pain management, infection control, and other conditions related to dental care. 

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, 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.

Can Dentists Order Physical Therapy in Massachusetts?

In the state of Colorado, dentists do not have the authority to order physical therapy for their patients. This means that while dentists can diagnose and treat a wide range of oral health conditions, they are not permitted to prescribe physical therapy treatments. If a dentist in Colorado believes that a patient could benefit from physical therapy, they would need to refer the patient to a healthcare provider who has the authority to prescribe such treatment.

Can Dentists Sign Handicap Parking Permits Forms in Colorado?

No, dentists are not authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Colorado. This responsibility typically falls to other healthcare professionals, such as physicians or nurse practitioners, who have a broader scope of practice and are more equipped to assess a patient’s overall health and mobility.

Can Dentists Sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST Forms in Colorado? 

No, dentists are not authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Colorado. These forms are designed to communicate a patient’s wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. They are typically used in situations where a patient has a serious illness or is near the end of life. The forms provide specific medical orders that are to be followed by healthcare providers, ensuring that the patient’s wishes are honored. 

Can Dentists sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Colorado?

Dentists are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Colorado. DNR orders are typically signed by a physician after a detailed discussion with the patient or the patient’s healthcare proxy or legal guardian. This conversation involves a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s medical condition, prognosis, and personal wishes regarding end-of-life care.

What are the Continuing Medical Education Requirements for Dentists in Colorado?

Dentists must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years in the state of Colorado. This is to ensure patient safety and professional competency. CE hours may only be applied to the license period in which they were completed.  This requirement is designed to ensure that dentists stay updated on the latest advancements in dental care, thereby ensuring patient safety and professional competency. The CE hours can include a variety of learning activities, such as attending workshops, seminars, or online courses that are relevant to their practice.