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

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

“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. AB 2164 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 moving through the legislature unopposed, with the backing from the medical board.