While it is true that several states are relaxing their licensing requirements, healthcare providers cannot simply start practicing in another state. 

<p>
  In response to COVID-19, the federal government has allowed for regulatory
  flexibility at the state level through<a
    href="https://www.crosscountrylocums.com/blogs/coronovirus-waivers"
  >
    licensing waivers</a
  >
  designed to expand access to care. If you&rsquo;re a provider who wants to
  help by working locums or an administrator who needs to shore up your
  <a href="https://www.crosscountrylocums.com/blogs/covid-19-and-coverage"
    >staff during this surge </a
  >, these state waivers may open some doors.
</p>

<p>
  However, within the industry, you may have seen this touted by recruiters as
  an opportunity for them to send providers to work absolutely anywhere. We
  believe during this time of immense pressure, its important to maintain a
  pragmatic approach. Therefore, we intend to be the clear voice within this
  cacophony of licensing information.
</p>

<h2>Be forewarned. This is not a free-for-all.</h2>

<p>
  While it is true that several states are relaxing their licensing
  requirements, healthcare providers cannot simply start practicing in another
  state. These waivers can be complex, and it&rsquo;s essential to be aware of
  the processes involved in each instance.
</p>

<p>
  For example, while many states are currently allowing for some type of
  exemption for using an out-of-state license, they are still requiring either
  an expedited temporary license or other type of registration. No one can
  simply begin practicing in a state with just any license. There is
  credentialing footwork to be done regarding these waivers. To lead providers
  or administrators to believe otherwise is spreading misinformation. We
  don&rsquo;t want you to be misled, and we&rsquo;re determined to do the right
  thing.
</p>

<h2>We are closely following state regulations.</h2>

<p>
  At Cross Country Locums, we are working tirelessly to stay abreast of the
  continually evolving regulations. Our skilled recruiters, credentialing
  experts, and compliance team members will work with you to navigate the
  stipulations of your location of interest and current licensure.
</p>

<h2>View resources on recent developments regarding waivers.</h2>

<h3>FSMB State Emergency Declarations and Licensing Waivers</h3>

<p>
  To see the latest developments by state, visit the Federation of State Medical
  Boards (FSMB) COVID-19 page and select
  <a href="https://www.fsmb.org/advocacy/covid-19/"
    >State Emergency Declarations and Licensing Waivers </a
  >. There you can find information on specific states, like Texas, which has
  enacted extensive
  <a
    href="https://www.crosscountrylocums.com/blogs/state-licensure-waivers-to-expand-care-for-coronavirus"
  >
    COVID-19 Disaster Waivers </a
  >to help providers expand their ability to care for patients, or Georgia,
  which &ldquo;may approve and issue &lsquo;<a
    href="https://medicalboard.georgia.gov/press-releases/2020-03-16/gcmb-emergency-practice-permittemp-license-response-covid-19"
    >emergency practice permits</a
  >&rsquo; to physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice registered
  nurses, and respiratory care professionals who wish to practice medicine
  during the public health emergency response to novel coronavirus, known as
  &lsquo;COVID-19.&rsquo;&rdquo;
</p>

<h3>CMS Approves Waivers for 13 States in Response to COVID-19</h3>

<p>
  Additionally, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) approved
  another 11 state waivers on March 23, 2020, bringing the total number of
  approved Section 1135 waivers for states to 13. To view the details visit the
  CMS
  <a
    href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-approves-medicaid-section-1135-waivers-11-additional-states-response-covid-19"
    >press release</a
  >
  which has links to waivers for the following states: Alabama, Arizona,
  California, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New
  Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia. Waivers are also available in Washington
  and Florida.
</p>

<h2>We are ready to help.</h2>

<p>
  We&rsquo;re on top of this, and our team can help. Find out where you can
  practice and how we can make it happen.
  <a href="https://www.crosscountrylocums.com/contact-us">Contact us</a>.
</p>


State License Waivers: Pragmatism Amidst Pandemic