Bill > LD105

This bill establishes an innovative sponsorship program to help internationally trained physicians (ITPs) obtain medical licensing in Maine, addressing physician shortages in underserved areas. The program, administered by the Finance Authority of Maine, will create up to 10 positions annually for ITPs to receive a temporary educational license. To qualify, physicians must have received medical training outside the United States, lived in Maine for at least 12 months, passed specific medical licensing examination steps, and be sponsored by one of four accredited hospitals. The licensing pathway is multi-stage: first, participants receive a renewable two-year temporary educational license to work under supervision, then a two-year restricted license to practice in physician shortage areas, and finally, after six years of practice, they may apply for a full, unrestricted medical license. The bill creates a dedicated revolving fund to support the program and requires biennial reporting to the state legislature about the program's progress. Key goals include expanding medical access in areas with physician shortages and providing a structured, supportive pathway for internationally trained medical professionals to integrate into Maine's healthcare system.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=105&snum=132