How to Manage Multiple Medical Licenses: Your Top FAQs Answered

Managing multiple licenses as a healthcare professional can be a real headache. From the expense of obtaining and maintaining licenses to the risk of disciplinary action, there are definitely some drawbacks to consider. But let's be real, isn't it worth it to have the ability to practice in different states, gain diverse experiences, and serve underserved communities?

Let’s get through some of the most Frequently Asked Questions so that you could find the solution that works best for you.

1. Why is it necessary for locum tenens providers to hold multiple licenses?

First and foremost, you must hold a license to practice in the state in which you provide medical services. If you plan on providing temporary medical services in multiple states, you will need to hold a license in each state to comply with legal requirements.

By having licenses in multiple states, you can take on assignments in various locations, providing a wider range of experiences and opportunities. This can be particularly helpful for locum tenens providers who want to travel or who are looking to gain more diverse experience in their field.

Besides, obtaining a new license for each temporary assignment can be time-consuming and require a significant amount of effort. By holding multiple licenses, you can reduce the time and effort required to obtain new licenses for each assignment, making it easier to take on new opportunities and provide continuity of care to your patients.

2. How can healthcare professionals obtain multiple state licenses?

To obtain multiple state licenses, you should apply to each state's respective licensing board. Each state has its specific requirements and application procedures, which may include submitting documentation, completing background checks, and passing exams.?

Check our blog and read more about Interstate licensing compacts, such as the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) and the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), that can streamline this process for eligible professionals.

3. What are the benefits of participating in interstate licensing compacts?

Let’s step aside from the obvious and regularly discussed streamlined application process, and reduced fees when compared to single-state licenses. And bring to light often-overlooked benefits.?

• Participating in interstate licensing compacts is that it can help healthcare providers better serve underserved communities.
• The IMLC can also help healthcare providers stay up-to-date with the latest medical practices and technologies with conferences, training programs, and other professional development opportunities in multiple states.
• Building professional networks. Providers can connect with other healthcare providers and organizations that they may not have otherwise been able to. This can lead to new job opportunities, collaborations, and other professional benefits.

4. How does telemedicine impact multi-state licensure for locum tenens providers?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, locum tenens could treat patients in multiple states without the need to obtain a new license in each state.

However, with the expiration of the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023, there may be changes to the regulations surrounding telemedicine and multi-state licensure. Currently, the PHE has allowed providers to use telehealth to treat patients in any state without having to obtain a new license in that state.

Without the PHE, locum tenens providers may need to obtain additional licenses in order to practice telemedicine in certain states, depending on the state's individual laws and regulations.

So, remember to stay informed and up-to-date on any changes to telemedicine regulations.?

5. Are there any drawbacks to holding multiple licenses?

While holding multiple licenses as a healthcare professional can be beneficial, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main concerns is the cost of obtaining and maintaining multiple licenses. Depending on the state, the fees for licensure can be expensive and add up quickly when holding licenses in multiple states. Additionally, healthcare professionals may need to pay for continuing education courses to fulfill each state's requirements for license renewal.

Another potential drawback is the risk of disciplinary action. Healthcare professionals holding multiple licenses are subject to the regulatory authority of each state, and any violations of state regulations or laws could result in disciplinary action. This could include revocation or suspension of a license in one or more states, which could have significant impacts on a healthcare professional's ability to practice.

6. How can locum tenens providers manage the renewal and maintenance of multiple licenses?

The task isn’t easy, but not impossible. You can either do everything yourself or save yourself a headache and delegate.

• Create a schedule or calendar that includes all of the important dates related to licensing renewal and maintenance: the expiration dates, continuing education, or other requirements that need to be fulfilled to renew the license.?

By keeping track of these deadlines in advance, you can avoid the stress and potential consequences of missing a renewal deadline.

However, if you have a busy schedule, you may not have the time or resources.

• Take advantage of technology and automation tools designed to make license management easier. These software applications and online services can help track renewals, and continuing education requirements, and even assist with new license applications.

or

• Work with a specialized credentialing service. This can be a real life and time saver.?

We offer both automated tools and full-service management, depending on your needs. With our 10+ years of expertise, we can help you stay on top of all your licensing requirements across all states.

So, if you're feeling overwhelmed in the licensing process, book a free consultation with us. We'll help you decide which option works best for you, so you can focus on what really matters - providing top-quality care to your patients.