Licensure compacts
There are many compacts between states that make it easier for health care providers to practice telehealth across states.
Multi-state licensing compacts
Licensing compacts are a faster pathway to interstate telehealth practice. Compacts are created when states agree upon a uniform standard of care and enact state laws.
A telehealth appointment occurs in the state where the patient is located at the time of the appointment. This approach enables both the home and compact states to maintain their oversight. Provider participation in a compact is voluntary.
Tip: Compacts can decrease the time-consuming process for providers seeking to practice telehealth in multiple states.
Watch this video to learn how providers are participating in licensure compacts to increase access to behavioral health care.
Compacts for physicians and nurses
Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC)
The IMLC authorizes physicians to practice medicine in multiple states. For a map of participating states, see the IMLC map.
The NLC authorizes nurses to practice across member states while maintaining a single license. For a map of participating states, see NLC map (PDF).
Allied and auxiliary health care workers
Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC)
The ASLP-IC authorizes telehealth across state lines for audiologists and speech-language pathologists. For a map of participating states, see the ASLP-IC map.
Occupational Therapy Compact (OT compact)
The OT compact authorizes occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to practice in other member states under a single license. The OT compact allows for instant verification of licensing information. For a map of participating states, see OT compact map.
Physical Therapy Compact (PT compact)
The PT compact authorizes physical therapists to work in member states under a single license. For a map of participating states, see PT compact map.
Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT)
The PSYPACT authorizes eligible psychologists to practice telepsychology across member states. For a map of participating states, see PSYPACT map.
Emergency medical services personnel
Emergency Medical Services Compact (EMS Compact)
The EMS compact authorizes EMS personnel to work in multiple member states under a single license. For a list of participating states, see EMS compact member states & commissioners.
More information:
- Getting started with licensure — Health Resources and Services Administration
- Multi-Discipline Licensure Resource Project — Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards
- Medicare Clarifies Recognition of Interstate License Compact Pathways (PDF) — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- ProviderBridge — Federation of State Medical Boards
- Licensure Compacts — National Policy Telehealth Resource Center