Last week, the MMA’s e-newsletter erred when outlining Governor Mills’ Executive Order outlining the renewal of licenses by physicians. The Board of Osteopathic Licensure and the Board of Licensure in Medicine will NOT be renewing medical licenses automatically during the COVID-19 emergency. Licenses will be partially EXTENDED – not renewed.

The Executive Order does the following:

***** Keep licenses from expiring or needing to be renewed for 30 days after the declaration of the emergency (including CME requirements) *****;

Allows the expedited licensure (at no cost) of qualified retired physicians and physician assistants to provide assistance for the duration of the emergency;

Allows the expedited licensure (at no cost) of qualified physicians and physician assistants licensed in other jurisdictions to provide assistance for the duration of the emergency;

Suspends the requirement of supervision or collaboration for nurses and physician assistants for the duration of the emergency;

Maximizes the use of telemedicine and telehealth and eliminates the need for some in-person patient visits for the duration of the emergency by:

Allowing voice-only technology to be used; and

Suspending any laws or rules related to state medical record privacy and HIPAA that would interfere with the use of telemedicine and telehealth technology.

We apologize to staff at The Board of Osteopathic Licensure and the Board of Licensure in Medicine. It is extremely important to get this correct information out, which could set both boards up for complaints when physicians and physician assistants need to file renewal applications when the COVID-19 pandemic is over.  Both boards provide an essential service for the safety of all Mainers and operates solely on the funds provided by licensing fees – including renewals. Thank you. We’ll keep trying to do better in providing you information.