The California Medical Association (CMA) is requesting that the Medical Board of California revise questions on its licensure application that may inadvertently discourage physicians from seeking mental and behavioral health treatment.

On July 30, 2024, the medical board is holding an interested parties meeting seeking feedback on whether it should change the introductory statement and questions relating to mental and physical health on its licensing application.

CMA is urging the medical board to narrow this section of the application to a single question asking, “Do you currently have any condition that impairs your ability to practice medicine safely?” and to clarify that applicants should respond “no” if they are receiving appropriate treatment for any conditions, if as a result of the treatment the condition does not impair their ability to safely practice medicine.  

“Narrowing this section of the application to one question that focuses solely on conditions impairing an applicant’s ability to practice medicine safely eliminates two unnecessary questions and reduces stigmatizing language inappropriately comparing various conditions,” CMA stated in its letter to the medical board.

This change aligns with CMA-sponsored AB 2164, authored by Assemblymember Marc Berman, which would eliminate the obligation for physicians to disclose personal medical information that does not impact their ability to practice medicine. Removing this barrier would make it more likely for physicians to seek the mental health support they need, benefiting both themselves and their patients. AB 2164 is currently moving through the legislature unopposed and has been supported by the medical board.