On October 11, 2019, the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine (BORIM) announced a new requirement for initial physician licensure in the state. Effective January 1, 2020, all first-time applicants in Massachusetts will be required to also complete an application through the Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS). FCVS’s website indicates it is “a Lifetime Repository of Verified Core Credentials … that can be used for multiple state medical boards.” The new BORIM requirement will require first time applicants to apply for a verified profile with FCVS that designates BORIM as the recipient of a “Medical Professional Information Profile.” Applicants will still have to apply through BORIM for licensure, but certain credentials will now be verified through the FCVS profile.

The FCVS credentials verification process will create and verify a portfolio of six credentials submitted by all first time applicants:

• Via submission of a notarized identification form.

• Medical Education. This includes medical school transcripts, diplomas, and certifications from authorized school representatives.

• Postgraduate Training. Records of any accredited residencies, internships, fellowships, and research.

• Licensure Examination History. FCVS will order copies of licensure examination transcripts of applicants.

• Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates Certification (if applicable)

• Licensure History. Includes information about current providers such as past licensure locations, sanctions, and specialty board certifications.

Applicants will be required to submit this information to FCVS, which will verify and report any discrepancies. With this information FCVS will create “a non-interpretive Physician … information profile which is sent to entities designated by the applicant.” Applicants will designate BORIM to receive the profile as part of the process for initial licensure in Massachusetts. Any applicant with an existing FCVS profile must ensure it is updated before applying to BORIM for Massachusetts licensure.

Currently, Massachusetts accepts – but does not require – credentials verification profiles from FCVS. On January 1, 2020, Massachusetts will join 13 other U.S. states and territories that require FCVS verified profiles.