Physician Assistant Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Iowa

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 Iowa.

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Iowa, known as the Hawkeye State, has a rich and fascinating history. In the late 1600s, French explorers like Marquette and Joliet documented Native American accounts of the region. Until the early 19th century, Iowa was exclusively occupied by Native Americans and a few European traders, with loose political control by France and Spain. After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, Iowa became part of the United States. However, uncontested U.S. control occurred only after the War of 1812 and a series of treaties that eliminated Indian claims on the state. Iowa was admitted to the union as the 29th state on December 28, 1846. Its gently rolling landscape extends westward from the Mississippi River, forming a bridge between eastern forests and western grasslands. Iowa is known for its rich history and agriculture, and is truly a hidden gem in the U.S.

• Take a visit to Iowa City, Iowa and visit the University of Iowa, home of the Hawkeyes. This bustling college town is home to a vibrant nightlife, plenty of dining and entertainment, and also serves as the state’s capital. 
• Located in Dyersville, Iowa, the Field of Dreams is a century-old Lansing family farm where baseball still ranks as a favorite pastime for all ages. Carved from a cornfield, this iconic baseball diamond became famous through the movie “Field of Dreams.” Tours of the inside of the Farm House, a retail store, and concessions stand await visitors. 
• Found in Madrid, Iowa, the High Trestle Trail Bridge is a photogenic bridge that spans the Des Moines River. Walk or bike across this impressive structure and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

• Des Moines, Iowa to Omaha, Nebraska: Approximately 125 miles; around 2 to 2.5 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to Minneapolis, Minnesota: Roughly 240 miles; about 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to Kansas City, Missouri: Around 190 miles; approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to Chicago, Illinois: About 320 miles; approximately 4.5 to 5 hours by car.
• Des Moines, Iowa to St. Louis, Missouri: Approximately 260 miles; around 4 to 4.5 hours by car.

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

Physician assistants in Iowa have moderate practice authority.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Death Certificates in Iowa?

In Iowa, physician assistants can sign death certificates.

Can Physician Assistants Prescribe Schedule II Drugs in Iowa?

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

Can Physician Assistants Order Physical Therapy in Iowa?

In Iowa, PAs can order physical therapy for their patients.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Handicap Parking Permit Forms in Iowa?

In Iowa, physician assistants can certify disability for parking placards.

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

PAs in Iowa can sign Iowa Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (IPOST) forms.

Can Physician Assistants Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Iowa?

A physician signature is required to sign a DNR form in Iowa. PAs cannot sign DNRs.

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

In Iowa, physician assistants (PAs) must complete 100 CE hours every two years, including 50 hours of AMA Category 1 Credit to maintain their licenses. Licensees who have prescribed opioids during the previous licensing period are required to complete 2 hours regarding the CDC Guidelines for prescribing opioids for chronic pain every two years. PAs who are mandated reporters are required to complete two hours in identifying and reporting child abuse and/or 2 hours in identifying and reporting abuse of dependent adults, unless exempt. For all subsequent renewals, licensees are required 1 hour of recertification training every three years. The initial 2 hours must be completed within the first six months of employment. All mandatory reporter training may only be completed through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. All DEA-registered practitioners (with the exception of DVM-only license holders) are required 8 hours of one time training on treating and managing patients with opioid or other substance use disorders, including the appropriate clinical use of all FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of a substance use disorder.