Physician Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Florida

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 Florida.

Click here for open physician jobs in Florida!

Florida, also known as “The Sunshine State,” has a rich history and a plethora of attractions that make it an enticing place to visit and work. Florida’s history dates back over 12,000 years when the first people inhabited the area. The state has been under Spanish, English, French, and Confederate rule before joining the United States as the 27th state in 1845. Notably, it was the site of the first permanent European settlement in the USA – St. Augustine, founded in 1565. Florida is a peninsula surrounded by water, offering diverse landscapes from hilly uplands to the famous Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys archipelago. 

With its rich history, diverse attractions, and an abundance of outdoor and cultural activities, Florida offers a compelling blend of opportunities for both leisure and work.

• With 1,200 miles of sandy beaches, Florida is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades National Park, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes
• St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, offers a glimpse into Florida’s rich history. Visitors can explore the state’s history through its numerous cultural and historical landmarks and museums.
• Florida is home to world-renowned attractions such as Disney World and Universal Studios, making it a hub for entertainment and family-friendly activities. 
• Florida is a haven for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. with over 1,250 golf courses and a range of water-based activities like fishing, boating, and scuba diving. 

• Miami, Florida to Orlando, Florida: Approximately 230 miles; around 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
• Miami, Florida to Atlanta, Georgia: Roughly 660 miles; about 9.5 to 10 hours by car.
• Miami, Florida to Tampa, Florida: Around 280 miles; approximately 4 to 4.5 hours by car.
• Miami, Florida to New Orleans, Louisiana: About 670 miles; approximately 10 to 11 hours by car.
• Miami, Florida to Jacksonville, Florida: Approximately 340 miles; around 5 to 6 hours by car.

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

In Florida, physicians can sign Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms, which specify a patient’s end-of-life care preferences. Physicians discuss these preferences with patients or their legal representatives before signing the form, which includes options like CPR, intubation, and mechanical ventilation. The form also covers pain management, comfort care, and religious support. POLST forms promote patient autonomy and facilitate open communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers, ensuring that end-of-life care is aligned with the patient’s wishes.

Can Physicians Sign Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Florida?

In Florida, physicians have the legal authority to sign Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders. This provision acknowledges patient autonomy and the right to make informed decisions about end-of-life care. Physicians assess the patient’s condition, prognosis, and goals of care before signing a DNR order. By signing a DNR order, the physician respects the patient’s wishes to forego resuscitation efforts in life-threatening medical emergencies.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Physicians in Florida?

In Florida, physicians are required to complete 40 hours of continuing education every two year licensure cycle. Required courses vary for MDs and ODs. MDs must complete two hours of CME on medical errors for second and subsequent renewals, every third renewal requires two hours of CME on domestic violence, and every physician registered with the DEA and authorized to prescribe controlled substances is required to complete two hours of CME on controlled substances for each renewal. ODs must complete an hour of CME in professional and medical ethics education, an hour covering Florida laws and rules, an hour covering federal and state laws related to the prescribing of controlled substances; and two hours required in the Prevention of Medical Errors. ODs must also complete a one hour course on HIV/AIDs by the first licensure renewal. Every third biennial renewal, ODs must complete a two hour domestic violence course. ODs must also complete 20 hours of AOA Category 1-A CE relating to osteopathic medicine or under osteopathic auspices.