Indy Standard

The Indiana House of Representatives has passed a bill authored by State Representative Beau Baird, aimed at addressing the shortage of medical professionals in rural and underserved communities. The legislation seeks to provide relief to hospitals facing challenges, support rural areas, and improve healthcare access while managing costs.

"We all know access to quality health care is a fundamental need for Hoosiers across our state, yet too many families, especially in rural Indiana, continue to struggle with finding providers," said Baird. "This forces families to travel long distances or wait for essential medical care. House Bill 1555 takes a common-sense, targeted approach to this issue by allowing qualified international medical graduates to practice in these underserved areas under a limited medical license."

The bill proposes that international doctors can earn their medical license in Indiana without repeating their residency if they have completed training in a program similar to those accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. After five years of service, they would be eligible for an unlimited license as determined by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.

Applicants must hold a recognized medical degree, certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates, have at least five years of post-residency practice experience, and be proficient in English.

House Bill 1555 has received support from the Indiana State Medical Association and was unanimously approved by the House Public Health Committee before passing through the full House. It will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.

For more information about the bill and legislative session updates, visit iga.in.gov.