COLUMBUS—State Senator Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson) announced today that Ohio has received its first applications to license out-of-state-doctors. That was made possible thanks to legislation sponsored by Roegner, the “Enter into Interstate Medical Licensure Compact," which became law last year.
With the addition of Ohio, the Compact includes more than 30 states, the District of Columbia, and the Territory of Guam. It is an agreement to streamline the licensing process for physicians who wish to practice in multiple states.
“It is so exciting to see Ohioans will soon realize real world benefits from this legislation,” said Roegner. "Thanks to the hard work of the individuals at the state medical board, Ohio met its target date of August 2nd to begin taking applications for Compact licenses. The first applications from out-of-state doctors to practice in Ohio were submitted on day one. It is satisfying to know that this bill is directly benefiting healthcare professionals and the patients they serve.”
Another benefit of the Compact is it doesn't just attract qualified doctors to Ohio, it also acts as an incentive for medical professionals to move to the Buckeye State. The Compact gives physicians confidence there is opportunity in Ohio that they may not be able to find in other states.
Roegner also sponsored Senate Bill 3, the “Enter into the Nurse Licensure Compact,” which became law last year. It gives nurses the same opportunities doctors enjoy under the Medical Licensure Compact.