(Office of the Governor) — Gov. David M. Apatang met with representatives of the Federation of State Medical Boards or FSMB to discuss strengthened collaboration in healthcare regulation, physician licensure, and patient safety initiatives impacting the Commonwealth and U.S. jurisdictions nationwide.
FSMB is a national non-profit organization representing state medical boards across the United States and its territories that license, regulate, and discipline physicians and other healthcare professionals. Through its programs and services, FSMB supports medical boards in fulfilling their mandate to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
During the meeting, Governor Apatang and FSMB leadership discussed shared priorities including physician licensure standards, telehealth regulation, mobile and temporary medical practice authorities during emergencies, continuing medical education, and professional accountability. The conversation also addressed the importance of ensuring that island communities benefit from strong medical regulatory systems comparable to those across the nation.
Governor Apatang emphasized the significance of maintaining public confidence in the healthcare system through effective oversight:
“Protecting the health and safety of our residents is paramount,” said Governor Apatang. “Our engagement with the Federation of State Medical Boards reinforces our commitment to strong regulatory partnerships, ethical medical practice, and continued access to high-quality patient care in the CNMI.”
FSMB provides state medical boards, board members, and staff with resources, data, policy guidance, and professional development opportunities designed to enhance regulatory effectiveness and leadership within the medical community. Its membership includes allopathic and osteopathic medical boards across the United States and its territories.
Governor Apatang expressed appreciation for FSMB’s continued support of the territories and their unique healthcare needs, particularly regarding workforce capacity, recruitment of qualified physicians, and cross-jurisdictional cooperation.
The administration will continue to work with national partners such as FSMB to strengthen healthcare systems, modernize regulatory frameworks, and ensure that the people of the Commonwealth receive safe, reliable, and professional medical care.
