HB2059 Summary

• Establishes licensure by endorsement for physicians, surgeons, and osteopathic physicians in Hawaii to overcome geographic barriers and access limitations.

• Requires applicants to hold a current, unencumbered, active license in a jurisdiction with qualifications substantially equivalent to or greater than Hawaii's requirements under section 453-4.

• Requires applicants to demonstrate at least two years of active medical practice in another jurisdiction within the preceding five years.

• Permits the Medical Board to require applicants to pass the Special Purpose Examination (SPEX) or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Variable-Purpose Examination – USA (COMVEX-USA) to verify safe and competent practice.

• Appropriates funds from the compliance resolution fund for fiscal year 2018-2019 to implement the endorsement licensing process and takes effect July 1, 2018.