Clinical Practice without Residency in Washington, USA

1. Introduction

In 2021, the Washington Medical Commission introduced the License for Medical Graduates, offering a unique pathway for IMGs to gain clinical experience without completing a residency. This blog explores the details and requirements of this limited license, shedding light on its significance for aspiring physicians.

2. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the limited license, aspiring IMGs must meet specific criteria:

• Washington State Residency

Reside in Washington for at least one year, evidenced by a WA State Issued ID, WA Driver’s License, or WA Voter’s Registration card.

• ECFMG Certification

Obtain certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).

• USMLE Completion

 Successfully pass all steps of the United States Medical Licensure Examinations (USMLE) within a seven-year period.

3. Application Process

The application process involves several key steps:

• Letter of Nomination:

 The Chief Medical Officer of the employing institution must send a Letter of Nomination indicating the start date of employment to the Washington Medical Commission.

• Practice Agreement:

The supervising physician should submit a Practice Agreement detailing the specific job duties at the place of employment through the Online Portal.

• National Provider Identifier (NPI):

Applicants need to apply for and receive an NPI using the taxonomy code 208D00000X to facilitate reimbursement for services.

• Medicare Enrollment:

 Enroll with the Federal Medicare System for providers to receive reimbursement for treating Medicare patients.

3. License Duration

The limited license allows IMGs to practice under supervision for two years, with the option to renew once, extending the total practice time to four years.

4. Distinctive Aspects of the Limited License

It’s crucial to note that the limited license does not replace the standard application for an unrestricted license. Instead, it serves as an opportunity to gain valuable clinical experience, enhancing competitiveness for residency and other postgraduate education programs.

5. Competitive Edge for Residency

Participating in clinical practice under this license can make IMGs more competitive candidates for residency programs, showcasing practical experience in the U.S. healthcare system.

6. Testing Requirement

IMGs pursuing this pathway must successfully complete the USMLE sequence, consisting of Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 within a seven-year timeframe.

Disclaimer: This information might be inaccurate. For the most accurate details, visit the official website of each state’s medical board.