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Bill

LC 602

Provide for licensure of international medical school graduates

2025 Regular Session

Bill would create licensure pathway for international medical school graduates to practice medicine in Montana, potentially addressing physician shortages in rural areas.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 602

Legislative bill overview

LC 602 would establish a licensure pathway for international medical school graduates to practice medicine in Montana. The bill would create specific requirements and procedures for these graduates to obtain medical licenses, separate from or in addition to existing pathways. This addresses Montana's potential physician shortage by potentially expanding the pool of qualified medical professionals.

Why is this important

Montana, like many rural states, faces physician shortages that can limit patient access to care. International medical graduates represent a significant untapped workforce—many are fully trained physicians who simply graduated from non-U.S. medical schools. Creating a clear licensure path could help fill gaps in underserved areas and improve healthcare availability.

Potential points of contention

  • Credential standardization concerns: Questions about ensuring consistent quality standards between U.S. and international medical schools, and whether additional testing or verification would be required
  • Scope and supervision requirements: Debate over whether international graduates should face different practice restrictions, supervision requirements, or geographic limitations compared to U.S.-trained physicians
  • Workforce competition: Concerns from U.S. medical school graduates about job market impacts and competition for residency positions or practice opportunities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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