Content Editor [2]
Although the Capitol Complex is open to the public the Department of State is not open for visitors to enter NOB offices. Those constituents who wish to drop of materials for the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations or the Bureau of Elections should be advised to utilize the drop box across the street at the entrance of the Keystone Complex. Those with questions can be provided with the following phone number: 717-783-3945 and their call will be forwarded to the appropriate agency.
Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs staff are continuing to process applications as quickly as possible during this emergency. In order to increase the number of health care providers to respond to the COVID-19 emergency, the Governor has suspended certain licensing provisions. Due to the public health risk surrounding the Coronavirus, we are currently unable to accept walk-in customers and phone calls. For all inquiries, please utilize the email addresses found on the Board Contact Information webpage.
The processing of licenses and permits for health care practitioners continues to be a priority. Please refer to www.pals.pa.gov/verify to check the status of a license or permit.
For more details visit:
Targeted Distribution of PPE
On April 8, 2020, Governor Wolf Signed an order to provide targeted distribution of COVID-19 PPE and supplies to hospitals. The order requires private, public and quasi-public health care providers and facilities submit current inventory quantities of PPE, pharmaceuticals and other medical resources to PEMA by April 16, 2020. The survey link can be accessed hereOpens In A New Window.
Additionally, a FAQ regarding this topic can be found here
Coronavirus Information
Athletic Trainers - Expansion of Scope of Practice to Provide Assistance in Responding to COVID-19 (PDF)
Osteopathic Physician
Emergency Short-Term License Application (PDF)
PERFUSIONIST EMERGENCY TEMPORARY LICENSE.pdf
Obstetricians, please find a letter from Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine on providing obstetric care during COVID-19 here
Pearson
VUE Information
Visit our COVID
Webpage:
https://home.pearsonvue.com/coronavirus-update Click on the FAQ Hyperlink for questions and answers
regarding scheduling and rescheduling.
Learn more about the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Information for telemedicine during the coronavirus emergency.
Telehealth behavioral health services to Medical Assistance beneficiaries information: OMHSAS-COVID-19-Telehealth-Expansion.pdf
Message from DEA regarding COVID-19 (PDF)
Pennsylvania Expands Clinical Clerk Services During COVID-19 Emergency
Suggestion for Boards of Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine for Prescribers:
In response to COVID-19 and potential shortages of medications that may be effective against the virus such as hydroxychloroquine, prescribers should include the patient's diagnosis on the prescription. If written for a COVID-19 diagnosis, the diagnosis has been confirmed by a positive test result and documented on the prescription. Smaller quantities of hydroxychloroquine should be prescribed for COVID-19 patients when appropriate to prevent potential shortages.
Persons of all backgrounds interested in helping during Pennsylvania’s time of need are welcome to sign up at the State Emergency Registry for Volunteers in PA
State Board of Osteopathic Medicine
The Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA) received reports that a person pretending to be from the State Board of Osteopathic Medicine (Board) is calling licensees about the status of their license. The scammer asks for credit card information. Persons who give their credit card information may not only lose their money, but also can become a victim of identity theft.
Licensees are urged to avoid becoming a victim of credit card fraud or identity theft:
BPOA and/or Board will NOT call licensees asking for payment over the phone.
If you get a text message or call asking for your credit card information, hang up.
Do NOT give your personal or financial information over the phone.
If you feel that you are a victim of any type of scam, you should immediately notify your local or state police.
The State Board of Osteopathic Medicine regulates the licensure and registration of doctors of osteopathic medicine and surgery; the certification of physician assistants and respiratory therapists; certification of athletic trainers; and the registration of acupuncturists.
Please note that neither the Board/Commission, nor its staff or counsel, are permitted to provide legal advice or advisory opinions, including interpretations of the law or regulations, or any indication as to how the Board would vote on any given case or scenario. You are invited to contact a private attorney or professional organization for advice or guidance.