This bill establishes a provisional licensure pathway for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to practice medicine in New Jersey. It defines an IMG as an individual who has obtained a medical degree from a recognized program within the last seven years, is in good standing with their home country's medical licensing authority, has completed relevant residency or post-graduate training, and possesses basic English fluency. The State Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to grant a provisional license, valid for three years, to IMGs who have secured employment with a licensed healthcare provider in New Jersey or are already licensed in certain countries. The provisional license requires the IMG to practice under the direct supervision of a fully licensed physician in the state and mandates that the IMG holds a valid federal immigration status.
The bill outlines the conditions under which a provisional license may be revoked and establishes an appeals process for licensees. It also specifies that a provisional license will automatically convert to a full license after three years of practice, provided there are no reports of misconduct. Additionally, the bill mandates that IMGs disclose their educational background and licensure status to patients before providing medical services. This includes information about their medical school, residency, and the board's determination of their credentials' equivalency to U.S. standards. Overall, the legislation aims to facilitate the integration of qualified international medical graduates into the New Jersey healthcare system while ensuring patient safety and compliance with state medical standards.