This bill amends the General Laws in Chapter 5-37, which pertains to the Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline, to introduce new definitions and provisions specifically for internationally-trained physicians. Key insertions include definitions for terms such as "internationally-trained physician," "limited international physician registrant," and "participating healthcare facility."

The bill establishes a pathway for internationally-trained physicians to obtain a limited international physician registration, allowing them to practice medicine in Rhode Island under the guidance, assessment, and evaluation of licensed physicians while they complete an assessment, training, and evaluation program at a participating healthcare facility. This limited registration can be renewed and ultimately leads to eligibility for a full, unrestricted medical license.

Additionally, the bill outlines the criteria for obtaining a limited international physician license, which includes being an internationally-trained physician, holding a valid certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (with potential waivers), achieving passing scores on both Steps 1 and 2 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) within three attempts for each step, and entering into a full-time employment relationship with a participating healthcare facility.

The bill also specifies that the one-year limited international physician license may be renewed twice, for a total of three years for primary care specialties, or for the total number of years required for ACGME-accredited residency training in other specialties, at the discretion of the board. To be eligible for a full medical license, an internationally-trained physician must provide proof of successful completion of the assessment, training, and evaluation program, a passing score on Step 3 of the USMLE within three attempts, and that the license shall authorize the holder to practice independently in a primary care specialty, psychiatry, or other specialty approved by the board.

Finally, the bill allows the director of the Board to promulgate any necessary rules and regulations to implement these provisions.