Physician Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Washington

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 Washington.

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Washington’s history is a journey from ancient times to modern innovation. For thousands of years, diverse Native American tribes thrived in the Pacific Northwest. European explorers arrived in the 1700s, followed by Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition. Fur trading and logging fueled early settlements, while conflict over land was a sad reality. After statehood in 1889, the gold rush brought prospectors, and Seattle emerged as a major port city.  In the 20th century, Boeing took flight, dams harnessed the Columbia River, and tech giants like Microsoft transformed the economy. Washington today blends its rich heritage with an innovative spirit.

From lush rainforests to the Cascade Mountains, Washington’s landscapes mirror its history – rugged, beautiful, and marked by constant change. Its story speaks of the enduring spirit of Native peoples, the ambitions of pioneers, and the relentless drive for innovation. Washington stands as a testament to the transformative power of the American West, a place where the past echoes in the present as it boldly shapes its future.

• Seattle Vibes: Experience the buzz of Seattle – visit Pike Place Market, take in skyline views from the Space Needle, and explore its vibrant music and coffee culture.
• Olympic National Park Adventures: Hike through ancient rainforests, explore tidepools on the rugged coast, and camp beneath towering peaks in stunning Olympic National Park.
• Island Escapes: Ferry to the San Juan Islands for whale watching, kayaking, and charming island towns, or explore the artsy communities on Whidbey Island.
• Wine Country & Eastern Landscapes: Tour vineyards and enjoy the tasting rooms of Walla Walla, or marvel at the dramatic scenery of the Columbia River Gorge and the volcanic peak of Mount Rainier.

• Oregon: Washington shares its entire southern border with Oregon. The distance from central Washington to the Oregon border is negligible.
• Idaho: Washington’s eastern border connects with Idaho. The distance from central Washington to the Idaho border is around 250 miles. 
• British Columbia (Canada): Washington shares its northern border with the Canadian province of British Columbia. The distance from central Washington to the British Columbia border is approximately 220 miles.

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

In Washington state, physicians are authorized to sign Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms. These forms guide medical treatment for patients with serious or life-limiting illnesses, helping to ensure that patients’ wishes are respected and unwanted interventions are avoided. The POLST form offers various treatment options, and the patient can choose which ones to accept or decline. Once signed, the POLST form becomes part of the patient’s medical record and must be followed by healthcare providers. POLST forms play a crucial role in ensuring patients’ end-of-life care preferences are honored.

Can Physicians Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Washington?

In Washington state, physicians are legally authorized to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physicians in Washington?

In Washington, physicians CME requirements vary for MDs and ODs. MDs are required to complete 200 CME hours every four year licensure cycle, and ODs are required to complete 150 CME hours every three year licensure cycle. Both MDs and ODs are required to complete a six hour CME training regarding suicide prevention and an hour of CME on the topic of best practices in prescribing opioids during their first full CME reporting period.