The proposed legislation aims to create a pathway for graduates of foreign medical schools to obtain a medical license in Arkansas, provided they secure full-time employment as a physician with a healthcare provider. The bill amends the Arkansas Medical Practices Act by introducing new definitions, including "healthcare provider" and "medically underserved population." It also modifies the qualifications for licensure, allowing foreign medical graduates who meet specific criteria, such as holding an active license in a foreign country and having practiced medicine recently, to apply for a provisional license.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for maintaining this provisional license, including a three-year employment commitment with the sponsoring healthcare provider and regular notifications to the Arkansas State Medical Board regarding employment changes. The provisional license is valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal, and after two years of practice under this license, physicians may qualify for an unrestricted license. The legislation emphasizes compliance with existing medical practice laws and regulations in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
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
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
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