Physician Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Montana

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 Montana.

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Montana resides on a remarkable piece of land, discovered in the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804-1806.  Fur trappers followed and were the main economic activity in the area until gold was discovered in 1852. The gold rush brought many people into the area in the 1860s, and by 1889, Montana became a state. Cattle ranches began to grow in the western valleys of Montana, as agriculture is still a major industry in Montana to this day. Montana is a haven for outdoorsmen, with beautiful views, idyllic hiking trails, and plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a visitor or resident, Montana is sure to leave you in awe and wanting more.

• Visit Glacier National park, home to 26 glaciers, 762 lakes, 563 streams, and roughly 746 miles of hiking trails. Take in the views, enjoy the wildlife, and be at peace in this beautiful park. 
• Take a ride through Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50 mile long road that crosses over the Continental Divide. This road passes through valleys, glaciers, alpine meadows, glaciers, and more! 
• Check out Downtown Bozeman to enjoy local shops, restaurants, and more! Bozeman is located an hour north of Yellowstone National Park, making it the perfect stop before heading into the park.

• Billings, Montana to Spokane, Washington: Approximately 450 miles; around 7 to 8 hours by car. 
• Billings, Montana to Denver, Colorado: Roughly 520 miles; about 8 to 9 hours by car. 
• Billings, Montana to Salt Lake City, Utah: Around 550 miles; approximately 8.5 to 9.5 hours by car. 
• Billings, Montana to Boise, Idaho: About 450 miles; approximately 7 to 8 hours by car.
• Billings, Montana to Rapid City, South Dakota: Approximately 350 miles; around 5.5 to 6.5 hours by car.

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

In Montana, physicians are authorized to sign POLST forms, guiding end-of-life care decisions for individuals with serious illnesses. Physicians are considered the most qualified professionals to make these decisions, given their training and experience. They are required to discuss the form with the patient and family, obtain informed consent, and regularly review it. POLST forms ensure that individuals’ end-of-life care wishes are respected and maintain control over their medical care even when unable to communicate their decisions.

Can Physicians Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Montana?

In Montana, physicians have the legal authority to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, respecting a patient’s wishes regarding end-of-life care, particularly declining CPR. A DNR order, a legally binding decision, becomes part of the patient’s medical record and guides healthcare professionals during medical emergencies. Discussions surrounding DNR orders involve life, death, and patient values. The Natural Death Act outlines the legal framework, emphasizing the right of competent adults to make medical decisions, including refusing life-sustaining measures. The act establishes procedures for signing DNR orders, ensuring they are made voluntarily and with full understanding. Montana’s commitment to patient autonomy and control over end-of-life care decisions is reflected in the authority of physicians to sign DNR orders.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physicians in Montana?

Montana stands apart from many other states by not imposing any compulsory continuing education (CE) hour requirements for physicians to maintain their licenses. Individual physicians ultimately bear the responsibility to maintain their skills and knowledge for optimal patient care.