McLean County Times

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued a call for retired healthcare workers to join in the fight against COVID-19.

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has relaxed some of its rules to allow recently retired medical professionals back into the workforce and welcome licensed health professionals from other states.

According to a release from IDFPR, physicians whose licenses are expired or inactive for less than three years can temporarily restore their license for no fee or continuing education requirement. They can then work under the direction of Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Department of Public Health, or in a long-term care facility, hospital or federally qualified health center. 

Physician assistants whose licenses are inactive or in non-renewed status can also restore their license for no fee or continuing education requirement. Nurses - LPNs, RPNs, APRNs and respiratory care therapists whose licenses are inactive or in non-renewed status for less than five years can also temporarily restore their license. Workers whose licenses will expire soon will automatically be extended through September.

Out-of-state physicians, nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists and respiratory care therapists may practice in Illinois if they are currently licensed in another state and in good standing. 

Sen. Bill Brady on his website outlined the new rules to help increase the healthcare workforce in the state. 

"The state’s healthcare system could soon see a wave of reinforcements coming to help in the fight against COVID-19," Brady wrote. "The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has announced changes to licensing rules that will make it easier for medical professionals who have recently left the medical field to join the fight against COVID-19 and for out-of-state health professionals to work in Illinois."

"We're in the middle of battle and we need reinforcements," the governor said during a Saturday afternoon briefing according to The Pantagraph. "This is hero's work, and all of you have our deepest gratitude for your willingness to serve."

This extension comes on the heels of the governor's stay-at-home order. Residents are allowed to leave home for essentials including going to the grocery store, putting gas in their car or picking up prescriptions at the pharmacy. Local roads will remain open and operating. Restaurants can offer take-out or drive-thru service only. Non-essential businesses have been ordered to close and employees are encouraged to work from home.