Multistate compact allows out-of-state doctors smoother path to license in Ohio

As the health care sector faces ongoing staffing challenges, some hope a new tool can attract more health professionals to Ohio (Source: “Out-of-state doctors can now be more easily licensed in Ohio,” Columbus Dispatch, Sept. 28).

Last year, Ohio became the 35th state to join the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which allows physicians from one state to get another state's license without having to redo the entire licensure process that a first-time doctor would have to go through.

At least 175 out-of-state doctors have applied for a license to practice in Ohio through the compact, according to the State Medical Board of Ohio. About 141 of those have been granted since the board began accepting applications in early August. There are a total of 95,668 active medical licenses in Ohio as of June.

Around 130 Ohio doctors have also taken steps to get licensed in another state through the compact, per the medical board.

Ohio recently joined similar multi-state compacts for nurses, counselors and physical therapists as well.