Joanne Finnegan | April 10, 2017
Many physicians who want to practice medicine in multiple states now have a streamlined process for medical licensure.
Last week, the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission officially began accepting applications from qualified doctors who want to obtain multiple licenses from participating states, according to an announcement (PDF) from the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB).
Eighteen states have adopted the compact and eight others, along with the District of Columbia, have introduced legislation to allow for expedited licensure through the new process.
The compact was created as a way to advance care across state lines and will allow more telemedicine services. Advocates say it will help ease physician shortages.
“The launch of the compact will empower interested and eligible physicians to deliver high-quality care across state lines to reach more patients in rural and underserved communities,” FSMB President and CEO Humayun Chaudhry, D.O., said in the announcement.
The compact, created by the FSMB, allows physicians applying for a state medical license to specify other states where they want to practice. Participating states will then issue licenses expeditiously if the physician meets eligibility criteria—eliminating the need for physicians to file multiple applications.
Physicians can find more information on the Commission’s website, including information about who is eligible to apply as well as a step-by-step explanation of the application process.
Source: Fierce Healthcare