Bill to create pathway for internationally trained physicians draws broad opposition and legal concerns

Helena — A bill intended to create a licensing pathway for internationally trained physicians (House Bill 797) prompted significant pushback from Montana licensing authorities, medical associations and labor groups who urged caution and suggested more study.

Representative Greg Oblander introduced HB 797 to address physician shortages by allowing certain internationally trained doctors to obtain state licensure through a pathway the sponsor described as rigorous but faster than repeating a U.S. residency. The bill would require qualifications such as an MD or equivalent degree, proof of post‑graduate education, English proficiency and passage of USMLE steps, and would create a provisional registration and sponsored practice structure in statute.

Tim Frost, a policy advocate…