Bill > HB313

This bill, known as the "Expanding Physician Access Act of 2026," aims to address physician shortages in Mississippi, particularly in rural and primary care areas, by creating a pathway for qualified international physicians to obtain a license to practice medicine in the state. It allows the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure to grant a provisional license to international physicians who are sponsored by an in-state healthcare provider, which is defined as any entity that provides healthcare services, such as hospitals or clinics. To qualify for this provisional license, international physicians must have a medical doctorate or equivalent degree from an accredited international medical program, be in good standing with their licensing country's medical board, have completed a residency or practiced as a physician for a specified number of years, and possess basic English fluency. They must also be eligible for federal immigration status that permits them to practice medicine in the U.S. and pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). The bill also allows for provisional licenses to be granted to international physicians who are licensed and residing in specific countries, including Australia, Ireland, Israel, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Canada, with the possibility of adding more countries in the future, provided they also meet federal immigration requirements. These provisional licenses will automatically convert to full licenses after three years of active practice in Mississippi, and the bill clarifies that all other medical practice standards and requirements remain in place, with the board continuing to ensure physicians have the necessary knowledge and experience.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0313.xml