Illinois lawmakers report that many Physician Assistants (PAs) are leaving the state for Iowa to seek licensure because processing times in Illinois extend up to six months.
The issue was raised during a Legislative Audit Commission hearing at the Illinois State Capitol last week, where leaders of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) reported on audit results.
State Senator Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) stated that PAs told him they chose Iowa because the process in Illinois takes about six months. He emphasized that a six-month wait equates to six months of lost personal income, lost state productivity, and lost tax revenue. He warned that if they move to Iowa, Illinois risks a long-term loss of medical human resources, leading to a reduction in healthcare services for residents.
State Representative Natalie Manley (D-Joliet) said she had also met with PAs and questioned the possibility of issuing temporary licenses to retain personnel during the processing period.
IDFPR Secretary Mario Treto Jr. stated that his agency is implementing a new licensing system. He noted that creating six-month temporary licenses could generate additional workload during the system transition phase. Treto expects the new licensing system to be completed by the end of this year.
When asked why other states process applications faster, Treto suggested that each state has different procedures.
Senator Rose acknowledged that Treto took over the agency amidst a backlog of issues dating back to 2021.
The licensing delays occur as many states face healthcare worker shortages, making processing speed a competitive factor in attracting healthcare professionals.
