FSMB’s goal was to finish the compact’s language by the end of the summer. “Once the contract is written, each individual state has to agree to the language in the compact,” said Dr. Thomas. “It can only be changed by a unanimous decision of all states.”
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September 2014The most recent discussion point revolved around eligibility requirements—such as a physician’s background, education, and training—in the compact, which would protect a patient’s best interests. “We took the highest requirements of all state medical boards and tried to include in the language a level of eligibility that would meet any state’s licensure requirements in the country,” Dr. Thomas said.
Dr. Thomas anticipates that the writing of the compact will be completed in the last quarter of 2014. Then, state stakeholders will approach the legislature and ask for support in making it law. When a governor signs it, the compact will become a law in that state.
The compact will go into effect when a minimum of seven states have enacted the legislation. “We have had inquiries and interest from well over seven states, and several are actively laying the groundwork for legislative action during the next legislative session,” Dr. Thomas said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we have seven states before the end of 2015.”—KA