The bill amends the Oklahoma Osteopathic Medicine Act to modernize the regulatory framework governing osteopathic physicians in the state. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "emergency," "malpractice," and "medical negligence," which clarify the conditions under which the State Board of Osteopathic Examiners can take action. The Board's powers are expanded to include enhanced subpoena authority, the ability to impose emergency suspensions of licenses, and the creation of a jurisprudence examination for applicants. Additionally, the bill streamlines the licensing process by allowing electronic renewals and clarifying that osteopathic physicians are not required to obtain Osteopathic Continuous Certification for licensure or employment.

Further changes include the establishment of a resident training license as a prerequisite for training programs, with specific evaluation criteria for full or advanced resident licensure. The bill enhances the Board's disciplinary powers, allowing for fines and sanctions against licensees for various violations, and revises the license renewal process to require sixteen hours of continuing education annually, including specific training in pain management or opioid use/addiction. The Board is also empowered to create rules for administrative remedies and ensure the protection of private information during disciplinary actions. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-621, 59-622, 59-626, 59-632, 59-633, 59-635.3, 59-637, 59-641, 59-645