Mississippi Board reports strong increase in physician and PA licenses through compact program

The March Board Meeting in Mississippi highlighted significant developments in the state's medical licensing landscape, reflecting both progress and ongoing challenges. The meeting, held on March 21, 2025, focused on the growth of licensed medical professionals and the implications of legislative efforts surrounding the medical practice act.

During the meeting, officials reported a notable increase in the number of licensed medical doctors (MDs) and doctors of osteopathy (DOs), with 72 new licenses issued in January and February alone, compared to just 39 in the previous two months. Additionally, the state has seen a surge in compact licenses, with 1,100 issued through the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), surpassing the 654 traditional licenses granted during the same period. This trend indicates a growing reliance on compact licensing, which allows physicians to practice in multiple states more easily.

The board also addressed the status of ongoing investigations, revealing a decrease in open cases to 44, one of the lowest figures in seven years. The efficiency of case closures has improved, with 68% of cases being resolved within seven days. This progress is crucial for maintaining public trust in the medical licensing process.

However, the meeting also underscored setbacks in legislative efforts. The proposed medical practice act, which aimed to modernize regulations, failed to advance past the second committee in the House. Despite this disappointment, officials expressed optimism about building on the momentum gained during this legislative session for future attempts.

The meeting concluded with a reflection on the demographic of licensed professionals, noting that the oldest active licensee is 97 years old, highlighting the long-standing commitment of some practitioners in the state. The board emphasized the importance of adapting to changing circumstances, including the impact of technology and the COVID-19 pandemic on medical practice and licensure.

As Mississippi continues to navigate the complexities of medical licensing, the board's discussions signal a commitment to improving access to healthcare while addressing regulatory challenges. The anticipated reintroduction of the medical practice act next year will be a critical step in shaping the future of medical practice in the state.