The number of medical licenses issued in Nevada continued rising from 2023 to 2024, which the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners (Board) attributed to improved protocols and the growth of quality health care statewide.
Year-end 2024 Board data shows the Silver State issued 2,002 unrestricted medical licenses in 2024, up 19% from 1687 a year earlier. The average licensing time for unrestricted medical doctor licenses was 39 days, down from 75 a year earlier.
Also, the Board also issued 217 physician assistant licenses, up 24% from 2023.
“In the past two years the Board has issued over 4,000 unrestricted medical licenses in our state,” said Board Executive Director Edward Cousineau, J.D.
New graduates from Nevada’s medical schools have helped boost Nevada’s number of medical license seekers. More doctors and physician assistants, Cousineau said, have increased choices and access for Nevadans, boosting overall care.
“The significant increase in licenses across all categories is a clear reflection that the board staff (members) are doing their job of expediting the licensing process without compromising the quality of healthcare to the public,” Cousineau said.
The Board attributed the license increases to internal, streamlined protocols; licensing-quickening timelines; a larger board staff to oversee licensing; and telemedicine’s steady rise. Cousineau also said digital fingerprinting has sped licensing and enhanced its efficiency.
ABOUT THE NEVADA STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS
The Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners serves Nevada by ensuring that only well-qualified, competent physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, perfusionists and anesthesiologist assistants are licensed to practice in Nevada.
The Board responds expediently to complaints by conducting fair and thorough investigations that result in appropriate action. In all activities, the Board places the public interests before the medical profession’s interests, and encourages public ideas and involvement. Visit Medical Examiners Board (nv.gov) for more information.
