The "Expanding Physician Access Act of 2025" aims to enhance the availability of high-quality, internationally licensed physicians in South Carolina by removing unnecessary barriers that hinder their ability to fill vacancies, particularly in rural and primary care settings. The bill introduces Section 40-47-39 to the South Carolina Code of Laws, which empowers the State Board of Medical Examiners to ensure that all internationally licensed physician applicants possess the necessary knowledge and experience to practice medicine in the state. The act maintains existing care standards while streamlining the licensing process for international physicians, including provisions for provisional licenses and the criteria for their issuance and revocation.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of provisional licenses for international physicians sponsored by healthcare providers, with specific eligibility requirements such as passing scores on the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and federal immigration status. Provisional licenses will convert to full licenses after three years of active practice, and the board retains the authority to revoke licenses based on violations of medical safety or competency standards. Additionally, the bill specifies that certain international physicians from designated countries may also qualify for provisional licenses, further broadening the pool of available medical professionals in South Carolina. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
02/25/2025: 40-47-39
Latest Version: 40-47-39