Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB954

Introduced
1/12/24  
Refer
1/12/24  
Report Pass
2/15/24  
Refer
2/15/24  
Engrossed
2/20/24  
Refer
2/26/24  
Enrolled
3/15/24  
Chaptered
3/25/24  

Caption

Provisional licenses to practice medicine and surgery for internationally trained physicians and physician assistants and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

The passage of AB954 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regulating medical licensure. By creating a provisional license category, the bill facilitates a pathway for internationally educated physicians to enter the Wisconsin healthcare system. These provisions will allow applicants with foreign training to practice under supervision, thus filling gaps within the state's healthcare workforce. This legislative change is seen as a crucial step towards improving healthcare accessibility in rural and underserved urban areas of Wisconsin.

Summary

Assembly Bill 954 (AB954) introduces a framework to continue addressing the challenges posed by a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals in Wisconsin by establishing provisional licenses for internationally trained physicians. This legislation aims to amend existing statutes related to medical practice licensing to accommodate these physicians, thereby enabling them to practice medicine under specific circumstances while awaiting full licensure. The new provisions are aimed at increasing the healthcare supply, especially in underserved areas, therefore potentially improving patient access to medical services throughout the state.

Sentiment

Sentiment around AB954 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among healthcare advocates and organizations that recognize the pressing need for additional physicians in Wisconsin. Proponents argue that the bill will not only alleviate physician shortages but also enhance diversity within the medical profession. However, there are concerns from some existing medical professionals regarding the standards of education and training that foreign-trained physicians may possess, which could influence patient safety and the quality of care provided.

Contention

Despite the overall positive reception, there are notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding AB954. Some stakeholders worry about the adequacy of training and assessments for provisional license holders, fearing that these may not meet the same rigorous standards as those required for fully licensed physicians. Additionally, the potential influx of provisional license holders could strain current healthcare systems that are already facing challenges in supporting new practitioners effectively, raising questions about supervision quality and resource allocation for both new and existing healthcare workers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB900

Provisional licenses to practice medicine and surgery for internationally trained physicians and physician assistants and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI SB145

Advanced practice registered nurses, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI HB1199

Physicians - Licensing - Internationally Trained Physicians

WI AB257

Advanced practice registered nurses, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB154

Advanced practice registered nurses, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI HF2564

A bill for an act relating to the licensure of internationally trained physicians, and including effective date provisions.

WI SB258

Advanced practice registered nurses, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI SB2115

Licensing and discipline of physicians and physician assistants.

WI SB1613

Practice of medicine; creating the Graduate Physicians Act; providing for licensure and practice of graduate physicians; specifying certain requirements, limitations, penalties, and protections. Effective date.

WI SF439

A bill for an act relating to the licensure of internationally trained physicians and including effective date provisions.(See SF 477.)

Similar Bills

SC S0376

Expanding Physician Access Act of 2025

OK SB1613

Practice of medicine; creating the Graduate Physicians Act; providing for licensure and practice of graduate physicians; specifying certain requirements, limitations, penalties, and protections. Effective date.

AZ SB1108

International medical licensees; provisional licensure

WI SB900

Provisional licenses to practice medicine and surgery for internationally trained physicians and physician assistants and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

FL H1145

Foreign-licensed Physicians

AZ SB1406

International medical licensees; provisional licensure

MT HB797

Generally revise occupational licensing laws

TX HB2038

Relating to the issuance by the Texas Medical Board of certain licenses to practice medicine and the authority of an insured to select certain license holders under the insured's health policy; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.