This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 30-3-12a, to the Code of West Virginia, 1931, establishing an emeritus physician license status for retired physicians, podiatric physicians, and physician assistants who meet specific eligibility criteria. The bill outlines that the West Virginia Board of Medicine may issue this emeritus license without a fee to individuals who hold a current, valid license, have fully retired from clinical practice, and meet qualifications such as not being under investigation for professional misconduct, having practiced for at least ten years, and not having a history of disciplinary action. Additionally, the bill allows for the issuance of emeritus licenses to those whose licenses expired before July 1, 2025, provided they meet the same criteria.

The emeritus license is described as an honorific status that does not permit the holder to engage in any clinical practice or obtain licensure in other states. Licensees in this status are exempt from continuing education requirements and do not need to renew their license periodically unless they return to active practice or the board revokes the license. The bill also mandates the board to create rules for the application process, grounds for denial or revocation, and procedures for voluntary relinquishment of the emeritus license, ensuring that the provisions are effectively implemented.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-3-12a