Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners and Medical Licensure Commission
Medical Digest Fall 2026
PAGE 2 | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MESSAGE PAGE 3 | PREPARING FOR RENEWAL SEASON PAGE 4 | HOW TO PROTECT YOUR LICENSE PAGE 5 | GOVERNOR IVEY ANNOUNCES RURAL HEALTH PROGRAM
PAGE 5| CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS PAGE 6 | PUBLIC ACTIONS PAGE 7| CME REQUIREMENTS
Medical Digest | Fall 2026 | 1
Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners Charles M. A. Rogers, IV, MD Chair Bay Minette Hernando D. Carter, MD Vice Chair Birmingham William E. Admire, Jr., DO Mobile Aruna T. Arora, MD Huntsville Carrie L. Atcheson, MD Birmingham Gregory W. Ayers, MD Birmingham Tonya E. Bradley, MD Auburn Nina S. Ford-Johnson, MD Mobile Adam C. Harrison, DO Cullman Marquisha M. Jarmon, MD Birmingham Beverly F. Jordan, MD Enterprise Mark H. LeQuire, MD Montgomery William J. Schneider, MD Huntsville William J. Suggs, MD Decatur David R. Thrasher, MD Montgomery Jane A. Weida, MD Tuscaloosa
Medical Licensure Commission Jorge A. Alsip, MD Chair Daphne Kenneth W. Aldridge, MD Vice Chair Tuscaloosa Eli L. Brown, MD Birmingham Craig H. Christopher, MD Irondale Howard J. Falgout, MD Tuscaloosa James R. Seale, JD Montgomery Nina P. Nelson-Garrett, MD Montgomery Pamela D. Varner, MD Birmingham
REFLECTIONS ON 2025: A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR From the Board’s 2025 Illustrative Annual Report One of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners’ most significant accomplishments in 2025 was the publication of updated Office-Based Surgery regulations. These updates reflect the first updates to these regulations William M. Perkins in twenty years. The Board began the Executive Director process to update the regulations in 2022. Throughout this process, the Board invited, welcomed, and engaged in a robust dialogue with Alabama physicians. At its January 2026 meeting, the Board voted to finalize the proposed rules. The Board believes that the current draft, as certified, best strikes the balance between protecting the public and avoiding unnecessary regulatory burdens on physicians. The Board, along with the Medical Licensure Commission, modernized medical licensure applications by refining how mental health questions are addressed. In recognition of this effort, the Board and Commission were named a 2025 Wellbeing First Champion by ALL IN: Wellbeing First for Healthcare, a national coalition dedicated to advancing clinician wellbeing. At the Annual Meeting of the Federation of State Medical Boards in Seattle, Washington, two Commission members received national appointments and honors. The Board proudly congratulates Commissioners Dr. Jorge Alsip and Dr. Craig Christopher for exemplifying the agency’s commitment to fairness, empathy, and justice in fulfilling its duty to protect the health and safety of Alabama patients. In response to trends and concerns surrounding emerging ketamine and testosterone therapies, the Board convened two physician-led work groups to conduct a comprehensive review of these treatments. As a result, the Board issued guidance to support Alabama physicians in delivering safe, evidence-based, high-quality care. The Alabama Opioid Overdose and Addiction Council’s Prescribers and Dispensers Standing Committee, established in 2017, marked a significant milestone this year. For the first time since its inception, Alabama experienced a 30 percent reduction in substance related overdose deaths between April 2024 and April 2025. Medical Digest | Fall 2026 | 2
The Board remains proud of its ongoing participation in the Council’s work, which focuses on equipping controlled substance prescribers with appropriate education and training through ALAHOPE.
for most licenses and registrations, so understanding the timelines and requirements can help avoid unnecessary stress or a lapse in licensure. One of the most important steps in preparing for renewal season is marking your calendar. In Alabama, most licenses and registrations expire annually on December 31, with the renewal window opening October 1 each year.
As we reflect on 2025, I am proud of the progress we have made in fulfilling our mission to protect the public while supporting Accessing the Licensee Gateway Alabama’s medical professionals.
The Board and Commission’s online Licensee Gateway
From implementing new online tools is the platform for completing renewals. As this is the to expanding educational initiatives second year renewals are available through Licensee and streamlining regulatory processes, Gateway, most licensees already have an account. If you do not have an account, you must create one, log we continue to look for ways to better in, and submit your renewal application through this serve both the public and the healthcare system. Licenses issued through the Interstate Medical professionals we regulate. These Licensure Compact (IMLC) must renew through the efforts are made possible through the IMLC. dedication of our Board members, staff, Verify Your Contact Information and healthcare partners across the It is important to make sure all demographic state. information is up to date. This includes physical and email addresses as the Board and Commission send
Thank you for your ongoing commitment renewal reminders and updates starting in October. to the citizens of Alabama. We look forward to building on this progress Complete Required Continuing as we continue our work to uphold the Medical Education (CME) integrity of the medical profession and Continuing Medical Education (CME) is required to protect the health and safety of the renew most licenses and registrations. Physicians must complete 25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ™ public.” (or equivalent) each calendar year for renewal of the William M. Perkins, Executive Director SCAN TO VIEW THE 2025 ILLUSTRATIVE ANNUAL REPORT
PREPARING FOR RENEWAL SEASON: A GUIDE FOR ALABAMA LICENSEES Start Early and Know the Deadlines As renewal season approaches, licensees should begin preparing early. Annual renewals are required
medical license. Documentation of CME credits must be retained for at least three years.
Additional CME requirements may apply depending on your license or certifications. For example, physicians with an Alabama Controlled Substances Certificate (ACSC) must complete two (2) AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ™ every two years in controlled substance prescribing. Physician assistants and nurse practitioners who have a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Certificate are required to obtain four (4) AMA PRA Category 1 credits ™ every two years through a Board approved course. A list of approved courses can be found on the Board’s website, albme.gov.
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Review Alerts in Your Licensee Gateway Account
Updated Specialty Skill Protocols:
When logging into your Licensee Gateway account, alerts may appear at the top of your profile. Review and take care of any alerts before renewing your licenses or registrations.
Renew Additional Registrations and Certifications
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Otolaryngology Specialty Protocol for Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners (CRNPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) Cosmetic Botulinum Toxin Injection Protocol for CRNPs and PAs Orthopedic Specialty Protocol for CRNPs and PAs
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR If a licensee holds additional registrations or LICENSE: COMMON PITFALLS certifications such as an Alabama Controlled TO AVOID Substances Certificate, Pain Management Registration, Office-Based Surgery Registration, or Laser Registration, these may require separate renewal or certification. After renewing your primary license, return to the Licensee Gateway to complete any additional renewals or certifications.
Covering Physician Certifications
The requirements for obtaining a medical license are clear but protecting that license is an ongoing responsibility. Each month, the Board reviews investigative cases, and many involve issues that could have been prevented with a little extra attention. While no one sets out to make a mistake, taking time to stay informed, maintain good practices, and understanding your obligations can help to avoid common problems.
If a physician has any The following reminders active collaborative Renewal season is highlight several issues practice agreements with an essential part of the Board encounters nurse practitioners or maintaining professional regularly, and practical registration agreements licensure and supporting steps physicians can take with physician assistants or patient safety in Alabama. to protect their licenses and anesthesiologist assistants, their patients. a certification of covering physicians is required. An alert should appear in your • Renew licenses, registrations, and certificates profile until this certification is complete. before they expire. • •
BOARD APPROVES UPDATES TO ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDER SPECIALTY • PROTOCOL SKILLS • The Board recently approved updates to three specialty skill protocols that allow Advanced Practice Providers to perform additional skills when certain requirements are met. The changes were recommended by the Physician Assistants’ Advisory Committee and the Joint Committee for Advanced Practice Nurses and reflect the strong partnership between the Board and these committees in addressing the evolving needs of healthcare professionals and patients across Alabama.
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Keep CME records organized and readily available. Read employment contracts carefully and maintain independent medical judgment. Stay current on Board rules and regulatory changes. Respond to Board inquiries in a timely manner. Document clinical decisions thoroughly. Know the qualifications, scope, and responsibilities of any provider you supervise or with whom you collaborate. Communicate appropriately with patients, caregivers, staff, and colleagues.
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GOVERNOR IVEY ANNOUNCES FIRST GRANTS IN ALABAMA RURAL HEALTH TRANSFORMATION PROGRAM Governor Kay Ivey announced the first round of funding through the Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program (ARHTP), awarding 138 grants totaling more than $144 million to healthcare providers and organizations across Alabama. The goal of this program is to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes in rural communities throughout the state. Governor Ivey’s full press release, including a complete list of healthcare providers and The initial round of funding supports five of the institutions receiving grants for projects under 11 initiatives of the ARHTP: Rural Health, Rural each of the five initiatives, is available here: Workforce, Mental Health, Rural Health Practice, Governor Ivey Announces First Grants in Major and Collaborative Electronic Health Record (EHR), New Rural Healthcare Program Totaling More IT, and Cybersecurity. than $144 Million.
HIGHLIGHTS OF MARCH 2026 PRESCRIBING AND PHARMACOLOGY CONFERENCE This is my favorite training of all time. The real-life scenarios are remarkable, as well as the knowledgeable staff and presenters who present research and other factual, experienced statistics and examples.”
include prescribing laws and regulations, current trends, and best practices for prescribing safely. More information can be found here: Prescribing and Pharmacology of Controlled Substances | Alabama Board of Medical Examiners & Medical Licensure Commission.
“I have been practicing and prescribing in another state for years, so I was frustrated to be required to take this course. However, I was pleasantly surprised by its usefulness and wealth of great information and resources. Thank you!” The Board of Medical Examiners hosts three live conferences throughout the year on prescribing controlled substances at no cost to licensees and permit holders. This course is mandatory for any nurse practitioner or physician assistant who is seeking to obtain their QACSC for the first time. Topics
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Report of Public Actions of the Medical Licensure Commission and Board of Medical Examiners
June 2026
July 2026
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June 2 - Hagop Y. Sarkissian, MD (MD. 48464), Lakewood Ranch, Florida - MLC Consent Decree approving settlement agreement.
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July 1 - Daniel A. Polansky, MD (MD. 13954), Mobile - MLC Order accepting voluntary surrender of medical license.
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June 2 - Richard E. Jones, III, MD (MD. 19352), Northport - MLC Order reinstating license to full and unrestricted status.
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July 6 - Jonathan C. Hood, MD (MD. 12971), Oneonta - MLC Consent Decree assessing administrative fine following the acceptance of a Joint Settlement Agreement with the Board.
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June 3 - Hesham A. Hassan, MD (MD. 44644), Birmingham - MLC Order staying license suspension and restricting medical license.
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July 6 - Rupa B. Shiva, MD (MD. 28819), Huntsville - MLC Consent Decree assessing administrative fine following the acceptance of a Joint Settlement Agreement with the Board.
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June 4 - Edward G. Witt, DO (DO. 556), Gurley - MLC Order accepting voluntary surrender of medical license.
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June 2 - Richard L. Sample, DO (DO. 898), Elmore - MLC Consent Decree approving settlement agreement.
July 20 - Delicia Vanterpool, CRNP (QACSCNP. 581-9313, QACSCNP. 546-12270), Madison - Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Certificate probation lifted.
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June 26 - Donet C. Main, DO (DO. 3671), Kansas City, Missouri - MLC Consent Decree approving settlement agreement.
July 20 - Lawrence J. Sindel, MD (MD. 11173), Mobile - Reinstatement of Alabama Controlled Substances Certificate to full, unrestricted status.
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June 26 - Cameron T. Corte (MD. 38259), Magnolia Springs - MLC Order approving practice plan.
August 2026 •
August 31 - Janie T. Bush Teschner, MD (MD. 14227), Birmingham - MLC Order reinstating license to full and unrestricted status.
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CME Requirements MD/DO
PA/AA
CRNP/CNM QACSC: Initial: 12 hours in controlled substances and pharmacology (Board approved course) within 12 months preceding application Renewal: 4 hours in controlled substances biennially thereafter (from Board approved list)
This is a summary of current CME requirements. For complete and up to date requirements, please visit our website: albme.gov
See the Board’s website for the complete list of Board approved courses for renewal of a QACSC.
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Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners P.O. Box 946 Montgomery, AL 36101-0946 www.albme.gov
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Montgomery, AL Permit No. 417
Upcoming BME Meeting Dates
Upcoming MLC Meeting Dates
Oct 15 | Nov 12 | Dec 10 The public portion of each meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. CT (unless otherwise indicated) in the Dixon-Parker Building at 848 Washington Avenue in Montgomery, AL. Meeting agendas and a full list of meeting dates and times can be found online at albme.gov.
Oct 28 | Nov 18 | Dec 16 Meetings are held in the Dixon-Parker Building at 848 Washington Avenue in Montgomery, AL unless otherwise indicated.
Have questions or need assistance? Alabama Board of Medical Examiners General questions | (334) 242- 4116 | BME@albme.gov MD/DO Initial Licensure | Credentialing@albme.gov Alabama Controlled Substances Certificates: | ACSC@albme.gov Alabama Medical Cannabis Permits | AMCP@albme.gov Advanced Practice Providers (Registration & Collaborative Agreements) | APPDept@albme.gov Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Certificates, Limited Purpose Schedule II Permits | QACSC@albme.gov Office Based Surgery | OBS@albme.gov Lasers | Laserreg@albme.gov Continuing Medical Education | CME@albme.gov License Verifications | Verification@albme.gov
Medical Licensure Commission General questions | (334) 242 - 4153 | MLC@almlc.gov
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Medical Digest is the official publication of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and Medical Licensure Commission.
Past issues are archived and available on the Board’s website at www.albme.gov.