An Act To Implement The Recommendations Of The Commission Regarding Foreign-Trained Physicians Living In Maine To Establish A Sponsorship Program For Internationally Trained Physicians

LD 105 establishes Maine's International Medical Graduates Sponsorship Program to help internationally trained physicians obtain licenses to practice medicine in physician shortage areas. The bill creates 10 annual positions at Maine's 4 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited hospitals, allowing physicians who have lived in Maine for 12+ months to receive a temporary 2-year license while completing training. To qualify, applicants must pass U.S. medical licensing exams (Steps 1 and 2 CK), have a valid credential evaluation, and partner with a sponsoring institution that provides nonclinical skills assessment. The program is funded through a new nonlapsing revolving fund administered by the state authority, directly addressing physician shortages in underserved communities.