The overwhelming need for health care professionals across the country has dramatically increased during COVID-19. Because of the current infrastructure, these demanding professions are highly regulated and can limit the number of skilled workers available to help.
As a result, state licensing boards are considering temporarily suspending licensing requirements for medical volunteers and aid workers.
Known as the Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioner Act, this state of emergency policy is normally seen during natural disasters and the aftermath of those disasters. This policy allows volunteer health professionals to come from other states and practice without seeking state-specific licensure.
In response to COVID-19, many states across the country have already activated this policy. Those include Arkansas, Colorado, DC, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and West Virginia. Although California has not currently enacted this policy, state licensing boards have looked to other measures.
The state released an executive order to support the increased health care need. This order gave retired doctors, nurses, and medical students temporary licenses to practice in the state. Additionally, their Health Corps program calls for healthcare professionals in the following areas:
- Physicians (MD, DO), including medical residents and students
- Pharmacists
- Dentists
- Nurse practitioners
- Physician assistants
- Nurses (RN, LVN, CNA), including nursing students
- Behavioral health professionals (psychiatrist, psychiatric technicians psychologist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC)
- Respiratory therapists
- Paramedics
- Medical assistants
- Emergency medical technicians
As part of this program, registrants will be given compensation as well as malpractice insurance coverage. All of the efforts are driven towards supporting the California community and keeping everyone healthy and safe.
During these difficult times, our team at Unlock Legal is here to support you. Whether you are facing allegations towards your license or are looking to be reinstated to support the COVID-19 efforts, know that with us, you are in great hands. Contact Unlock Legal today or give us a call at your convenience at 949-988-4444 to speak with a professional about your case and your unique needs. You’ll find we are compassionate, easy to talk to, and willing to help in any capacity we can.
Unlock Legal provides focused representation in criminal defense and defense for California licensed professionals.