The bill amends Sections 5-37-1 and 5-37-16 of the General Laws in Chapter 5-37, which governs the "Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline." It introduces new definitions, including "ECFMG" (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates), "internationally-trained physician," and "participating healthcare facility," which pertains to healthcare centers that evaluate internationally-trained physicians in Rhode Island's physician shortage areas. The bill also defines "Rhode Island physician shortage area" as regions facing a shortage of physicians, particularly in primary care and psychiatry. Additionally, it updates existing definitions, clarifying the roles of the "chief administrative officer" and the "director" of the Rhode Island Department of Health, while removing outdated language to enhance the clarity of medical licensure regulations.

Furthermore, the legislation establishes a pathway for internationally trained physicians to obtain limited registration to practice medicine in Rhode Island through a three-step assessment process via the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). To qualify, these physicians must hold a valid ECFMG certificate, achieve passing scores on the first two steps of the USMLE, and enter into an agreement with a participating healthcare facility for evaluation of their nonclinical skills. The bill allows for a renewable one-year limited license, extendable for two years if the physician works in designated shortage areas, and after two years of restricted practice, they may apply for a full medical license. It also updates the language regarding the director's authority by replacing "he or she" with "the director," aiming to address physician shortages in underserved communities while providing an alternative to traditional residency requirements.