This bill establishes a pathway for graduates of foreign medical schools to obtain a medical license in Arkansas if they are offered full-time employment as a physician by a healthcare provider serving a medically underserved population. The bill amends the Arkansas Medical Practices Act to include new definitions for "healthcare provider" and "medically underserved population." It also modifies the qualifications for licensure, allowing foreign medical graduates to be licensed if they meet specific criteria, including holding an active license in a foreign country, practicing medicine within the last four years, and passing the necessary examinations.

Additionally, the bill introduces a provisional licensing system for these foreign medical graduates, requiring them to maintain employment with their sponsoring healthcare provider for at least three years and to notify the Arkansas State Medical Board of any changes in employment. The provisional license is valid for one year and can be renewed under certain conditions, ultimately leading to eligibility for an unrestricted license after two years of practice. The bill emphasizes compliance with the Arkansas Medical Practices Act and the rules set forth by the Arkansas State Medical Board.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB601 V2 - 4-9-2025 11:23 AM: 17-95-202, 17-95-201, 17-95-301, 17-95-401, 17-95-403(b), 17-95-403
Old version SB601 Original - 4-1-2025 03:07 PM: 17-95-202, 17-95-201, 17-95-301, 17-95-401, 17-95-403(b), 17-95-403
SB 601: 17-95-202, 17-95-201, 17-95-301, 17-95-401, 17-95-403(b), 17-95-403
Act 971: 17-95-202, 17-95-201, 17-95-301, 17-95-401, 17-95-403(b), 17-95-403