The 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.

Click here for locum tenens healthcare provider jobs in Hawaii!

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 Nurse Practitioners in Hawaii?

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

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Death Certificates in Hawaii?

Yes, NPs are authorized to sign death certificates in Hawaii. This responsibility is part of their expanded scope of practice, allowing them to perform tasks traditionally reserved for physicians. This policy not only recognizes the advanced training of NPs, but also helps streamline healthcare processes.

Does Hawaii Recognize Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers? 

Yes, Hawaii state statute and/or administrative code recognizes NPs as primary care providers. This recognition empowers NPs to deliver a broad range of healthcare services that are traditionally associated with primary care physicians. It is a testament to the evolving landscape of healthcare, where NPs are playing an increasingly pivotal role in meeting the primary care needs of the community.

Can Nurse Practitioners Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Hawaii?

NPs have the authority to independently prescribe schedule II drugs in the state of Hawaii. They are also permitted to dispense, administer, and procure schedule II drugs to patients without supervision of a physician. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological and/or physical dependence.

Do Nurse Practitioners Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, state law does not specify Hawaii’s requirements for medical staff composition. This absence of specific regulations allows these healthcare institutions the flexibility to determine their staffing needs based on a variety of factors.

Can Nurse Practitioners Order Physical Therapy in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, NPs have the authority to make referrals for physical therapy for their patients. This is a significant aspect of their role, as it allows them to ensure that their patients receive the necessary care and treatment. However, it’s also important to note that in Hawaii, patients have the option to seek physical therapy services directly, without the need for a referral.

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Hawaii?

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

Can Nurse Practitioners Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Colorado?

In the state of Hawaii, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders are no longer its own form but a clause within Hawaii’s Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Form.

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

Yes, nurse practitioners are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Hawaii. 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. 

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Nurse Practitioners in Hawaii?

In Massachusetts, NPs are required to fulfill 30 CE hours, 8 of which must be in pharmacology/pharmacotherapeutics, every two years. These hours must be certified by ANCC, ANA, AMA a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthesia certifying body or approved by another Board of Nursing. 

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

In the state of Hawaii, 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 Hawaii?

Yes, PAs are authorized to sign death certificates in Hawaii. This responsibility is part of their expanded scope of practice, allowing them to perform tasks traditionally reserved for physicians. This policy not only recognizes the advanced training of PAs, but also helps streamline healthcare processes. 

Does Hawaii Recognize Physician Assistants as Primary Care Providers? 

Yes, Hawaii state statute and/or administrative code recognizes PAs as primary care providers. This recognition empowers PAs to deliver a broad range of healthcare services that are traditionally associated with primary care physicians. It is a testament to the evolving landscape of healthcare, where PAs are playing an increasingly pivotal role in meeting the primary care needs of the community.

Can Physician Assistants Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Hawaii?

PAs have the authority to independently prescribe schedule II drugs in the state of Hawaii. They are also permitted to dispense, administer, and procure schedule II drugs to patients without supervision of a physician. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological and/or physical dependence. 

Do Physician Assistants Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, state law does not specify Hawaii’s requirements for medical staff composition. 

Can Physician Assistants Order Physical Therapy in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, 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 Hawaii?

Yes! Physician assistants are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Hawaii. 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 Hawaii? 

Yes, PAs are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Hawaii. 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 Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders are no longer its own form but a clause within Hawaii’s Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Form. 

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

In Hawaii, physicians assistants are required to complete 40 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME) every 2 years. 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 Hawaii?

Physicians have full practice authority in the state of Hawaii. 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 Hawaii?

Yes, the state of Hawaii 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 Hawaii Recognize Physicians as Primary Care Providers? 

Yes, Hawaii 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 Hawaii?

Yes, physicians are authorized to prescribe Schedule II drugs in the state of Hawaii.. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological and/or physical dependence. 

Do Physicians Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, state law does not specify Hawaii’s requirements for medical staff composition. 

Can Physicians Order Physical Therapy in Hawaii?

Yes! Physicians have full authority to order physical therapy for patients in the state of Hawaii. 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 Hawaii?

Yes! Physicians are authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Hawaii. 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 Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders are no longer its own form but a clause within Hawaii’s Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Form. 

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

Yes, physicians are authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Hawaii. 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.

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

In Hawaii, physicians assistants are required to complete 40 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME) every 2 years. This is a mandatory requirement aimed at ensuring that physicians maintain their competence and learn about new and developing areas of their field.

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Hawaii?

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 dentists to evaluate patients, diagnose, and prescribe medications and therapeutic measures. 

Can Dentists Sign Death Certificates in Hawaii?

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

Does Hawaii Recognize Dentists as Primary Care Providers? 

The state of Hawaii, through its statutes and administrative codes, acknowledges the role of dentists as primary care providers. 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 Independently Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, 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 Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, state law does not specify Hawaii’s requirements for medical staff composition. 

Can Dentists Order Physical Therapy in Hawaii?

In the state of Hawaii, 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 Hawaii 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 Permit Forms in Hawaii?

No, dentists are not authorized to certify disability for parking placards in the state of Hawaii. 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 Hawaii? 

No, dentists are not authorized to sign POLST/POST/MOLST/MOST/COLST forms in the state of Hawaii. 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 Hawaii?

Dentists are not authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders in the state of Hawaii. 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 Dentists in Hawaii?

Dentists must complete at least 38 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years in the state of Hawaii if they were licensed before January 1, 2022. The state of Hawaii requires dentists to obtain 20 clinical hours, 6 ethical hours, and at least 1 Basic Life Support hour within their total CE hours.  This requirement is designed to ensure that dentists stay updated on the latest advancements in dental care, thereby ensuring patient safety and professional competency.