FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH WORKS TO ASSIST MILITARY FAMILIES

CONTACT: DOH Office of Communications,
Ashley Carr, Deputy Press Secretary (850) 245-4111

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH WORKS TO ASSIST MILITARY FAMILIES

-DOH streamlines licensure application process for military spouses-

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Health (DOH) recognizes the day-to-day sacrifices made by military families and the complications that can arise with repeated relocation. DOH, in accordance with House Bill (HB) 1319 (2011) and in an effort to minimize the strain placed on these families, has streamlined the health care professional licensure application process for military spouses. HB 1319 provides authority for the board, or department if there is not a board, to issue a temporary license to the spouse of an active duty member of the United States Armed Forces.

HB 1319 effectively allows for faster employment of spouses of active duty military members stationed in Florida by not requiring the passing of state licensure examinations prior to issuing a temporary license. The new law also contains a reduced licensure fee. As of July 3, 2012, DOH has received 19 applications for temporary licensure under the military spouse provision; 12 licenses have been issued and seven applications are pending.

In order to obtain this temporary license, applicants must provide:

An application and fee,
Proof that the applicant is married to a member of the Armed Forces of the United States who is on active duty in Florida,
Proof that the applicant holds a valid license for the profession issued by another state, District of Columbia, or a possession or territory of the United States,
Proof that the applicant is not the subject of any disciplinary proceeding in any jurisdiction in which the applicant holds a license to practice,
Proof that the applicant would otherwise be entitled to full licensure under the appropriate practice act,
Proof that the applicant is eligible to take the respective licensure examination as required in Florida, and
A complete set of fingerprints for a criminal background check by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

“Having served as a US Army trauma surgeon, I have firsthand knowledge of the sacrifices made not only by service members, but also their families,” said State Surgeon General Dr. John H. Armstrong. “DOH is committed to making job transitions and relocations easier on military families. HB 1319 serves as a thank you to the men and women who serve the United States in the Armed Forces and choose to call Florida their home.”

The Florida Department of Health’s mission is to protect and promote the health of all residents and visitors in the state through organized state and community efforts, including cooperative agreements with counties. For more information, visit the Department’s Division of Medical Quality Assurance Licensure Services website.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For news story ideas, interviews, videos and more from DOH Communications visit the DOH Online Newsroom.

###

Tweet