The proposed bill would update current statutes by introducing a new section, 32-1440, allowing the Arizona Medical Board (AMB) and the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners (ABOE) to grant provisional medical licenses to international medical licensees under specific conditions. This includes requirements such as having an employment offer in a county with a population under one million and possessing the necessary federal immigration status. The bill also specifies that the inability to obtain records cannot be the sole reason for denying licensure and mandates that applicants demonstrate satisfactory passage of exams and provide evidence of substantially similar medical training deemed equivalent by the AMB or ABOE.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of provisional licensees, including working under supervision and complying with continuing education requirements. Provisional licenses would be renewed annually and could convert to full licenses after four years if certain conditions are met. The AMB and ABOE would be required to report on the outcomes of provisional licensure by January 1, 2033, and the bill prohibits accepting new applications for provisional licenses after January 1, 2034. Overall, these updates aim to facilitate the integration of qualified international medical professionals into Arizona's healthcare system while ensuring public safety and maintaining professional standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-1440
Senate Engrossed Version: 32-1440
House Engrossed Version: 32-1440