The Physician Compact License is a significant development in the medical field, designed to simplify the licensing process for physicians who wish to practice in multiple states. Officially known as the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), it provides a streamlined pathway for obtaining licenses in participating states, making it easier for doctors to expand their practices across state lines while maintaining high standards of care.
If you’re a physician exploring the possibility of practicing in multiple states, here’s a detailed look at the compact and the states that participate.
What is the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact?
The IMLC is an agreement among U.S. states that allows qualified physicians to apply for expedited licenses in other participating states. This compact was established to address the growing demand for healthcare access, especially in rural and underserved areas, and to accommodate the flexibility of telemedicine practices.
Key benefits of the IMLC include:
Faster Licensing Process: Streamlined application and verification.
Support for Telemedicine: Enables physicians to meet the demands of remote healthcare.
Improved Mobility: Allows doctors to relocate or provide services in multiple states with less administrative burden.
To qualify, physicians must meet specific criteria related to education, licensing history, and discipline records.
States That Participate in the Physician Compact License
As of now, 37 states, the District of Columbia, and the Territory of Guam are active members of the IMLC. Here’s a complete list:
Participating States:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
Delaware
District of Columbia
Georgia
Guam
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
States Not Participating
Despite the growing adoption of the IMLC, several states have yet to join. These include large states like California, Florida, New York, and Massachusetts. In these states, physicians must still navigate traditional licensing procedures.