FSMB proposes plan to help physicians practice in multiple states

The Federation of State Medical Boards has drafted an interstate compact to make it easier for physicians to practice in multiple states. The proposal could lead to increased use of telemedicine, which may help mitigate the nation’s physician shortage.

Under the proposed compact, rather than applying for licenses state by state, physicians licensed in one state could seek expedited licenses to practice in additional states as long as they meet certain requirements.

To be eligible for an expedited license, a physician would have to be certified in his or her medical specialty, not have any active investigations by a licensing or law enforcement agency, and not have a history of being disciplined or punished by a medical licensing agency, the Drug Enforcement Agency, or a court.

If states’ medical boards adopt the proposed compact, an interstate commission would administer and enforce medical licensure. This would require states to share information about physicians who have been disciplined or are under investigation. So if a physician’s license is suspended or revoked in his or her home state, the commission could automatically suspend or revoke licenses in all other states.

Source: New York Times