The bill aims to establish preceptorship and hardship pathways for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking licensure to practice medicine in Washington State. It amends RCW 18.71.051 to recognize Canadian medical school accreditation and national medical licensure standards as equivalent to those in the United States. The bill introduces new provisions allowing the commission to waive certain requirements for IMGs experiencing hardship in providing necessary documentation for licensure. Hardship scenarios include refugee status or persecution in the applicant's home country, but the inability to complete certification processes will not be considered a hardship.

Additionally, the bill creates a new section that allows the commission to develop a preceptorship pathway for IMGs, which would enable them to qualify for full physician licensure without completing the standard postgraduate training. This pathway requires a period of supervised practice, assessments by supervising physicians, and satisfactory evaluations. The commission may also establish an abbreviated assessment program for exceptionally qualified IMGs to expedite their licensure process. Overall, the bill seeks to facilitate the integration of qualified international medical professionals into the healthcare system in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.71.051