Interstate Medical Licensure Effort Advances
It was reported in HealthLeaders Media on September 17, 2014[1] that at least 15 states are considering a revised draft of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (referred to as “Compact”), which has the support of the American Medical Association. It is part of an effort to provide physicians a streamlined path to obtain medical licensure in multiple states that appears to be gaining traction. They noted that many state licensing boards “have been awaiting the final version” which needs to be approved by state legislators. The revisions proposal includes:
- A requirement that physicians seeking licensure in multiple states through the Compact must pass licensing tests such as the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination within three attempts.
- The adoption of a streamlined process for license renewal through the Compact.
- A provision allowing members of the general public who serve on state medical boards to also serve on the commission that will govern the Compact.
With the revisions in place, about 80 percent of the country’s physicians would be eligible to obtain medical licensure in multiple states through the Compact.
[1] Health Leaders Media. “Interstate Medical Licensure Could Ease Physician Shortages.” (August 7, 2014).
