ME LD2233

Merges Maine's Board of Licensure in Medicine and Board of Osteopathic Licensure into a single "Maine Board of Medicine" effective January 1, 2027, while recognizing the distinct philosophical and educational differences between allopathic physicians, osteopathic physicians, and physician associates as separate professions

Creates a 22-member board consisting of 6 allopathic physicians, 6 osteopathic physicians, 4 physician associates, and 6 public members, all appointed by the Governor for 5-year terms with annual compensation ranging from $1,250 for members to $7,500 for the secretary

Establishes licensure requirements including application fees up to $700 for physicians and $400 for physician associates, biennial renewal fees up to $600, and mandates background checks through the Maine Criminal Justice Information System and FBI

Sets physician associate practice requirements including collaborative agreements with physicians for those with less than 4,000 hours of clinical practice, and practice agreements for those exceeding 4,000 hours who wish to serve as principal clinical providers

Transfers all assets, liabilities, employees, records, rules, and pending investigations from both existing boards to the new Maine Board of Medicine, with current board members serving until their existing terms expire