This bill proposes the creation of Chapter 43-17.6 of the North Dakota Century Code, which establishes a licensure framework for international physicians. It defines key terms such as "international physician," "health care provider," and "international medical program," outlining the qualifications required for international physicians to obtain a provisional license. To be eligible, an international physician must have an employment offer from a health care provider in North Dakota, meet specific educational and training criteria, pass the United States medical licensing examination, and fulfill other requirements set by the state board of medicine.
The bill also details the provisional licensure program, which allows international physicians to practice medicine in North Dakota under certain conditions. A provisional license can be revoked if the physician ceases employment or violates state standards. Importantly, the provisional license will automatically convert to a full medical license after three years of active practice in the state. Additionally, the board is granted authority to verify training equivalency, review examination results, and conduct background investigations, while international physicians can apply for provisional licensure prior to receiving federal work authorization, although they cannot begin practicing until such authorization is obtained.