DC Health Issues Temporary Healthcare License Declaration October 7, 2021

On October 4, DC Health Director Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt issued a declaration authorizing temporary licensure and certification, respectively, for certain health professionals and emergency medical service providers.

The new temporary license process allows healthcare professionals in thirty different professions to practice while awaiting the status of their permanent license. This is a new permanent feature for DC Health, and not only available during a public health situation or public health emergency situation.

Healthcare professionals (including MD/DO physicians) can apply for a temporary license that is valid for up to 90 days. The temporary license process requires easier to obtain documentation but still will require the professional to prove good standing in another jurisdiction. The temporary license is meant to serve as a bridge between application and permanent license, not a replacement or option for professionals expecting to provide service for a few weeks.

MSDC is meeting with DC Health to learn more details and will share more as they become available. DC Health expects more information for the public will be available the week of October 11.