Physician Assistant Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Utah

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 Utah.

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Utah’s history is a wild mix of pioneers, prophets, and some seriously salty landscapes!  Native American tribes have called this land home for centuries. Later, Mormon pioneers, led by Brigham Young, trekked across the plains seeking religious freedom. They built Salt Lake City, battled the desert, and clashed when Utah sought statehood.  Throw in mining camps, the Transcontinental Railroad, and stunning National Parks, and you’ve got one unique story. Today, Utah is known for outdoor adventures, the “Greatest Snow on Earth”, and a fascinating blend of old and new.

Utah’s history is carved into its landscapes, from desert mesas to snow-capped peaks. It echoes in the determination of its early settlers and the vibrant mix of cultures that now call it home. With a past built on faith, grit, and a relentless spirit, Utah’s story is an ongoing testament to the power of transformation and the enduring allure of the American West.

• Outdoor Paradise: Hike the otherworldly landscapes of Zion, Arches and Bryce Canyon National Parks, ski pristine slopes in Park City, or go mountain biking among the red rocks of Moab.
• Salt Lake City Exploration: Visit Temple Square, headquarters of the Mormon Church, explore historic sites, and enjoy the city’s growing food and arts scene.
• History & Culture: Step back in time at “This is the Place” Heritage Park, learn about prehistoric Utah at dinosaur museums, or delve into the story of the Transcontinental Railroad at Golden Spike National Historical Park.
• Great Salt Lake: Float in the ultra-salty water, explore Antelope Island State Park, or catch a mesmerizing sunset over the lake.

• Idaho: Utah shares its northern border with Idaho. The distance from central Utah to the Idaho border is negligible. 
• Wyoming: Utah’s northeastern border connects with Wyoming. The distance from central Utah to the Wyoming border is roughly 140 miles. 
• Colorado: Utah shares its eastern border with Colorado. The distance from central Utah to the Colorado border is approximately 220 miles. 

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

In Utah, physician assistants (PAs) have full practice authority, enabling them to evaluate patients, make diagnoses, order tests, prescribe medications, and perform invasive procedures without direct physician supervision. Full practice authority benefits patients by improving access to care, especially in underserved communities, and increasing patient satisfaction due to reduced wait times. It also allows PAs to practice to the full extent of their education and fosters collaboration and teamwork between PAs and physicians, leading to better patient outcomes. 

Can Physician Assistants Sign Death Certificates in Utah?

In Utah, physician assistants (PAs) are legally authorized to sign death certificates. This decision is based on their extensive training, understanding of legal requirements, and commitment to providing high-quality care. They must also take continuing education courses on death certification to maintain their licensure. By allowing PAs to sign death certificates, the state of Utah ensures that patients and their families have access to timely and accurate death certification services.

Does Utah Recognize Physician Assistants as Primary Care Providers? :

The state of Utah acknowledges the role of physician assistants (PAs) as primary care providers through its statutes and administrative codes. PAs are recognized for their education, licensure requirements, and scope of practice. They play a vital role in providing accessible and high-quality primary care services to patients in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and rural health centers. The benefits of PAs in primary care include increased access to care, patient-centered care, collaboration with physicians, and cost-effectiveness. Their contributions to patient care and the overall healthcare system in Utah are significant and continue to expand.

Can Physician Assistants Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Utah?

Yes, physician assistants can prescribe schedule II drugs in Utah.

Do Physician Assistants Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Utah?

In Utah, physician assistants (PAs) are eligible for medical staff membership in healthcare facilities. This recognition acknowledges their role in delivering patient care and enhances collaboration among healthcare professionals. PAs with a current, unrestricted license and meeting hospital criteria can apply for membership. As medical staff members, PAs can participate in committees, contribute to policy development, and have clinical privileges under physician supervision. Medical staff membership for PAs benefits both individual PAs and the healthcare system by fostering teamwork and improving patient outcomes.

Can Physician Assistants Order Physical Therapy in Utah?

In Utah, physician assistants (PAs) have the authority to order physical therapy for their patients. PAs can assess patients, diagnose conditions, and develop treatment plans that include physical therapy. The full authority granted to PAs in Utah to order physical therapy is a benefit to patients, as it provides them with timely access to services and individualized care plans. 

Can Physician Assistants Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Utah?

In Utah, physician assistants (PAs) play a crucial role in certifying disability for parking placards. PAs are well-equipped for this task due to their extensive training and clinical experience. To obtain a disability parking placard, individuals must meet specific criteria and submit supporting documentation, including a certification from a healthcare professional. PAs are authorized to evaluate patients for disability parking placards, conduct medical histories, order diagnostic tests, and make informed decisions about patient eligibility. 

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

In Utah, Physician Assistants are allowed to sign Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms. These forms provide guidance for healthcare professionals regarding patients’ preferences for end-of-life care. PAs play a crucial role in assessing the patient’s capacity to make decisions, discussing treatment options, and documenting their wishes on the POLST form.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Utah?

In Utah, physicians are legally authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders. DNR orders are typically used for terminally ill patients or those with severe medical conditions where resuscitation is unlikely to be successful. The process for obtaining a DNR order varies by state, but in Utah, patients can request one from their physician. 

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

In Utah, physician assistants (PAs) must earn 40 continuing education (CE) hours every two years to maintain their license. This requirement ensures PAs remain updated with advancements in medical knowledge and best practices. PAs can fulfill the requirement by attending conferences, workshops, seminars, and online courses. The purpose of the CE requirement is to promote patient safety, high-quality healthcare services, and professional growth for PAs.