SB 1680 - Access to Health Care Practitioner Services

• Physicians licensed under chapters 458 or 459 who complete at least 120 hours of pro bono services in a biennial period are exempt from continuing education requirements.

• Establishes a registration program for volunteer retired physicians requiring at least 20 years of active licensure, proof of 3 of last 5 years in practice, and service in health professional shortage areas under supervision of an active physician.

• Expands restricted licenses for physicians and osteopathic physicians to include unlimited Canadian applicants with active licenses, increases contract period from 24 to 36 months, and expands eligible practice settings to include free clinics.

• Allows physicians and osteopathic physicians to waive license renewal fees by demonstrating 160 hours of pro bono medical services to indigent or underserved populations within the biennial renewal period.

• Revises the definition of "low-income" to increase the threshold for uninsured persons from 200 percent to 400 percent of the federal poverty level.