Pennsylvania joins multistate licensure compacts for healthcare workers

Governor Josh Shapiro announced Pennsylvania's full participation in three health care licensure compacts at the WellSpan Education Center in York. This development allows qualified doctors, nurses, and physical therapists to practice across state lines more efficiently.

The new arrangement means out-of-state practitioners can join Pennsylvania's health care workforce within days instead of months, addressing staffing needs and improving access to care. The initiative is part of the Shapiro Administration's efforts to reduce barriers and cut red tape for the state's critical health care workforce.

Pennsylvania now fully participates in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), and Physical Therapy Licensure Compact (PT Compact). This change affects over 300,000 nurses, nearly 65,000 doctors, and more than 17,000 physical therapists by providing them with additional flexibility to work in multiple states. It also allows licensed providers from other states to work in Pennsylvania.

"Thanks to the diligent, continuous hard work of the Department of State - and the support of bipartisan leaders in the House and Senate - we've finally leveled the playing field for doctors, nurses, and physical therapists in Pennsylvania," said Governor Shapiro. "We listened to nurses, doctors, and lawmakers who called on us to fully implement these health care compacts, and we got it done."

This move aims to attract more health professionals as states nationwide face workforce shortages. By breaking down barriers through these compacts, Pennsylvania hopes to fill critical gaps in care across the Commonwealth.