This bill introduces a new section, RSA 329:12-a, which establishes a framework for granting provisional and full medical licenses to international physicians. To qualify for a provisional license, applicants must be licensed outside the United States or Canada, have at least five years of relevant medical experience or residency, and meet several criteria, including holding a recognized medical school certificate, paying a nonrefundable application fee, providing proof of good standing with their licensing authority, demonstrating English fluency, and securing employment at a healthcare provider with an accredited residency program. The provisional license allows these physicians to practice only at accredited facilities, and they may appeal any revocation of their license within 30 days.

After two years of holding a provisional license in good standing, these physicians can obtain a full and unrestricted medical license, which removes the limitation of practicing only at accredited facilities. The bill also includes provisions for the revocation of provisional licenses based on violations of medical standards. However, it has been noted that this new licensing process may conflict with existing regulations and could lead to increased administrative costs for the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, estimated to range from $10,000 to $100,000. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.