The bill amends the Oklahoma Osteopathic Medicine Act to enhance the authority and operational capabilities of the State Board of Osteopathic Examiners. Key changes include the addition of new definitions for "Board," "Osteopathic physician," and "School of osteopathic medicine," as well as updated licensing requirements. The bill prohibits individuals from representing themselves as board-certified specialists unless they have completed the necessary certification. It also clarifies the Board's mission to safeguard public health and promote osteopathic medicine principles. Furthermore, the bill allows investigators to access nonfinancial business records through a Board subpoena and mandates that licensees consent to inspections, with noncompliance potentially leading to disciplinary actions.

Additional provisions include the introduction of a special volunteer medical license for retired physicians and a resident training license for medical school graduates. The bill empowers the Board to conduct national criminal history checks and issue licenses without examination to qualified practitioners from other jurisdictions. It also establishes new requirements for license renewal, including the submission of applications by July 1 each year and the maintenance of malpractice liability insurance for active practitioners. The Board is granted authority to impose penalties for violations of ethical standards and to manage resources through a revolving fund. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline regulatory processes, enhance public safety, and ensure compliance with established standards in the practice of osteopathic medicine in Oklahoma.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-624, 59-633, 59-637, 59-631
Committee Substitute: 59-624, 59-633, 59-637, 59-631
Floor (House): 59-624, 59-633, 59-637, 59-631
Floor (Senate): 59-624, 59-633, 59-637, 59-631
Engrossed: 59-624, 59-633, 59-637, 59-631
Enrolled (final version): 59-624, 59-633, 59-637, 59-631