Licensure of physicians through amendments of current licensing rules
Dear Members of the Virginia Board of Medicine,
I am writing to express my support for the Notice of Intended Regulatory Action (NOIRA) regarding HB995, which aims to address the healthcare provider shortage in Virginia. As a member of the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA), I commend the Board of Medicine and the Department of Health Professions (DHP) for their proactive steps in expanding access to healthcare services across the state.
APPNA has worked closely with Delegate Tran's team to advocate for this legislation, recognizing the critical need to leverage the expertise of international medical graduates who have practiced as specialists abroad for over 10 to 15 years. Many of these physicians have also completed the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Steps 1, 2, and 3, albeit over a period exceeding the typical ten-year timeframe. Additionally, some of these physicians have completed residency training, further enhancing their qualifications and readiness to contribute to our healthcare system.
Given their extensive experience and the value they bring to our healthcare system, I urge the Board of Medicine to consider providing a waiver or accommodation for the ten-year rule on USMLE completion. Such a measure would be instrumental in facilitating the integration of these highly skilled professionals into our healthcare workforce, thereby enhancing patient care and addressing existing shortages.
Thank you for your consideration of this important issue. I am confident that with thoughtful regulatory adjustments, we can make significant strides in improving healthcare access and quality for the residents of Virginia.
