As an international medical school graduate (IMG), applying for a medical license in ND is an exciting milestone in your professional career. However, even one seemingly innocuous mistake or a single missing piece of documentation could jeopardize your entire application. And if your license application is unsuccessful, your future working as a doctor in ND could be cast into doubt.
However, the better you understand ND's medical licensure process, the more prepared you are to make a successful application. Below, the Lento Law Firm explores what issues an IMG applying to work in North Dakota might face and how such obstacles may be addressed.
Do you have an IMG licensing issue in North Dakota? There's no need for you to handle this complex – and sometimes overwhelming – process alone. Retain the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team now by calling 888.535.3686 or schedule a meeting by completing our simple contact form.
North Dakota Board of Medicine
Decisions regarding whether to accept or reject a physician's license application are made by the North Dakota Board of Medicine. The Board is responsible for protecting public health and safety, promoting the highest quality medical care, and undertaking disciplinary action against healthcare professionals in the state for rules violations.
Without a license from the ND Board of Medicine, you cannot legally practice medicine in North Dakota. And if you violate the state's Century Code or Administrative Code, you could lose your license, even if it is granted initially.
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)
The Board requires proof that you have received an equivalent medical education to that received by medical students in the US. To demonstrate this, you must complete and pass the US Medical Licensing Examination, or “USMLE”.
You can't obtain certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) without this unless a strict exemption applies, and so successfully completing the USMLE is critical.
The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
The ECFMG certifies to medical boards around the US that a graduate has received a suitable medical education that qualifies them to work as a doctor in the US. Obtaining ECFMG certification is crucial to your medical license application, as the Board will, in most cases, automatically reject you without it.
North Dakota State Eligibility Requirements for International Medical School Graduates
Before applying for a physician's license in North Dakota, IMGs must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Graduate from an approved medical school
- Pass the USMLE
- Obtain ECFMG certification (unless you graduate from schools in certain territories, such as England, Scotland, Australia, or New Zealand)
- Complete a 24-month postgraduate certification, approved by the Board, in the US or Canada
The Board has discretion regarding whether to accept or deny applications – even if you do not strictly meet the entry requirements. Should this be the case, our Professional License Defense Team can help you present the strongest possible case in your own favor.
Application Process for International Medical School Graduates in North Dakota
The application process for obtaining a physician's license in North Dakota can be complex, especially if you are new to the Board's rules and procedures. However, the main steps are as follows.
- Check what supporting documentation you require, such as proof of your medical degree, vocational training, ECFMG certification, and your USMLE grade.
- Submit your application and the required paperwork by email. Some documentation, such as the Medical School Verification Form, must be completed directly by your medical school.
- Complete the relevant background checks and provide suitable references to support your application. If you have any concerns about the outcome of a criminal background check, do not hesitate to call us for assistance before completing your application.
- Pay the relevant fee set by the Board (this is around $405 but is subject to change).
- It is possible that you may have to attend a meeting before the Board. Our attorneys can provide advice and representation should this be the case.
The Board will notify you if any further information is required from you before deciding on your application. The Board, then, makes it your responsibility to check your application dashboard and review any “tasks” that must be completed before a decision is issued.
North Dakota International Graduate Medical Licensing Issues
The North Dakota Board of Medicine has the authority to reject applications for many reasons. However, some grounds for refusal are more likely to affect international medical school graduates than others.
Disciplinary Issues
Every country has different standards regarding a doctor's fitness to practice. However, any disciplinary action against you could be viewed negatively by the ND Board of Medicine and, in some cases, may prevent you from obtaining a license, especially if the alleged incident involved a patient.
Similarly, some disciplinary action, such as being disciplined for substance abuse or even facing criminal charges, could jeopardize your application. It all depends on the nature of the action against you and how it relates to your overall fitness to work as a doctor in the state according to the Board's standards.
Academic and Performance Issues
The Board must be convinced that you have the academic ability and the requisite experience to safely care for North Dakota residents. Any issues around your academic performance or an inability to verify your grades, degree, or certification could lead to an application refusal.
Competency Issues
The North Dakota Board of Medicine must be convinced that you have the core clinical competencies to practice medicine. This means any questions about your training, skill set, or overall clinical competence could be fatal to your application.
School Eligibility Issues
Your school must meet North Dakota's strict eligibility requirements before you may be considered for licensure. If your school does not meet ND's criteria at all, or if the school is initially acceptable but is later removed from the state's approval lists, you may be unable to obtain licensure in the state.
What Happens if Your Medical License Application Is Rejected in North Dakota?
There are, of course, various short and long-term consequences associated with a license application denial from the North Dakota Board of Medicine. The exact consequences are always unique to an applicant's situation; however, the most common repercussions are as follows.
- Depending on your immigration status, you could lose the right to live and work in ND at all.
- Failing to obtain a medical license in North Dakota could make it more challenging to obtain licensure anywhere in the US, depending upon the nature of the grounds for refusal.
- Your financial investment in a medical career is at risk if your dream is to work in North Dakota or the surrounding states.
- Depending upon why your application is rejected, you may be unable to practice medicine, at least in the short term, which could throw your entire professional future into jeopardy.
At the Lento Law Firm, our Professional License Defense Team will do our utmost to help you achieve your career goals and overcome common licensing issues.
Appealing a License Application Refusal from the North Dakota Board of Medicine
If the North Dakota Medical Board refuses your license application, then you may have the right to request a review. You must be able to support your appeal request, though. It is not simply an opportunity to ask the Board to reconsider its decision; you must have evidence to show why you are a suitable candidate for licensure in North Dakota.
There is no guarantee that the Board will reconsider its decision or that it will grant you a license to practice medicine in the state. The best way to secure employment as a physician in North Dakota is to obtain your medical license the first time around, which is where the Lento Law Firm can help. We will do everything we can to ensure that your application goes smoothly and that no avoidable errors are made.
Can a Lawyer Help with IMG License Application Issues in North Dakota?
Absolutely. While we understand that you might think you can handle your licensing issues alone, your application is simply too precious to risk leaving anything to chance.
- The ND Board of Medicine has its own experienced and knowledgeable team of lawyers on which it can rely. If you are unaware of the legal rights you have, or you don't have much experience with Board administrative procedures, then you risk placing yourself at an instant disadvantage when issues arise.
- As a state agency responsible for protecting public health, the Board will not hesitate to delay or even reject your application. To ensure that you receive the fair treatment you deserve, you require an experienced lawyer on your side.
- You are required to provide very specific documentation – and meet strict deadlines – to apply for a physician's license in North Dakota. Having an attorney represent you will ensure that these deadlines are met and that you have the appropriate supporting documents to verify your application.
Physician's license applications are inherently time-consuming and stressful. Just one mistake could be enough to risk your entire application – and your shot at working in North Dakota. But when you get legal advice prior to submitting your application, or when you seek support to appeal a failed application, you can rest easier, knowing that you are doing everything possible to secure the outcome you wish for.
Why Choose the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team?
You may be tempted to simply hire a local civil lawyer to help with your medical licensing issues in North Dakota. However, here's why you should strongly consider hiring the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team instead.
- We routinely represent healthcare professionals, including IMGs, facing a range of licensing matters. Given our experience, we will
- Our attorneys work across the US, meaning we have a unique understanding of the complexities of medical licensing issues around the country. We will use our knowledge of these intricacies to your advantage where possible.
- We are passionate about promoting the best interests of our clients at every opportunity. Our lawyers are committed to fighting for what's fair – including ensuring that you have a fair shot at securing a medical license in North Dakota.
- Our lawyers will, where possible, always seek a path of negotiation and open communication. However, should litigation or further legal action be required, we will not hesitate to represent you at any administrative hearing or before any court or medical board.
If you have any questions regarding the licensing application process, or you're concerned about how your application is progressing, don't hesitate to reach out to the Lento Law Firm.
Experienced Professional License Attorneys Representing IMGs Across North Dakota and Beyond
The Lento Law Firm does not just represent medical professionals across the US. We assist IMGs aspiring to work in every type of medical facility in North Dakota. So whether you wish to work at North Dakota State Hospital, Prairie St. John's Psychiatric Center, or Pembina County Memorial Hospital, our team is waiting to help you complete your application successfully or handle licensure application refusals.
From Fargot to Minot, our Professional License Defense Team can reach you. Trust our experienced attorneys to assist you in any way we can.
Retain the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team
After investing so much time, money, and resources into your medical education, you deserve the chance to reach your full potential. And if working in North Dakota is a dream of yours, then the Professional License Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm wants to help you pursue it.
Whether you need support obtaining documentation or there's an issue with your license application that you wish to appeal, our lawyers want to know about it. We will explain your legal rights, present your options for moving forward, and help you make an informed choice for proceeding with the application process.
As a promising, talented healthcare professional, you deserve the chance to pursue a medical career in North Dakota. Don't let an application error or administrative issues jeopardize that future you have worked so hard to build. Instead, call the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team at 888.535.3686 and discover how we might assist. Or, leave us a message online to schedule a meeting to discuss your case.
