The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 30-3-12a, which establishes an emeritus physician license status for retired physicians, podiatric physicians, and physician assistants who meet specific eligibility criteria. The board 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 providers whose licenses expired before July 1, 2025, provided they meet the same criteria.

The emeritus license is intended as an honorific status and 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 unless they return to active practice or the board revokes it. The board is tasked with creating rules for the application process, grounds for denial or revocation, and a process for voluntary relinquishment of the emeritus license.

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