| SUMMARY OF: | A Sunset Review on the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, State Medical Board(board), September 18, 2012 |
Purpose of the Report
In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes (sunset legislation), we have reviewed the activities of the board. The purpose of this audit was to determine if there is a demonstrated public need for its continued existence and if it has been operating effectively. Alaska Statute 08.03.010(c)(12) states the board will terminate on June 30, 2013. As required by AS 44.66.050(a), this report shall be considered by the committee of reference during the legislative oversight process in determining whether the board should be reestablished. Our audit objectives were as follows.
- Determine if the board’s termination date should be extended.
- Determine if the board is operating in the public’s interest.
- 3. Determine if the board has exercised appropriate, regulatory oversight of osteopaths, podiatrists, physicians, physician assistants, and paramedics.
- Provide a current status of recommendations made in prior board-related audits.
Report Conclusions
In our opinion, the board is serving the public’s interest by effectively licensing and regulating osteopaths, podiatrists, physicians, physician assistants, and paramedics. The board is also serving the public’s interest by monitoring the profession and ensuring only qualified individuals are licensed to practice medicine.
The board is scheduled to terminate June 30, 2013. We recommend the board’s termination date be extended seven years to June 30, 2020.
Findings and Recommendations
- The Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing’s (DCBPL) director should continue to address deficiencies in the investigative case management system.
- DCBPL’s director should implement procedures to ensure board disciplinary actions are reported in accordance with state and federal law.
- DCBPL’s director should ensure continuing medical education reviews comply with state law.