The Board

The Oregon Legislature created the Oregon Medical Board in 1889 to regulate the practice of medicine in the state of Oregon and to protect citizens from unauthorized or unqualified medical care providers. With the authority granted in Oregon Revised Statute, Chapter 677, The Medical Practice Act, the Board licenses, conducts investigations, imposes disciplinary action, and supports rehabilitation, education, and research to protect the citizens of Oregon.

Board Composition

Board members provide a critical public service for patients and the medical profession. The 14-member Board oversees all agency functions and makes all final decisions on the regulation of the practice of medicine in Oregon.

Appointment Process

Under the provisions of ORS 677.235, each member is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Nine members are physicians: six Doctors of Medicine (MDs), two Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), and one Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM).

In 2016, a Physician Associate (PA) was added as a member of the Board; an additional PA member was added in 2024. Three public members of the Board represent the public.

The physician and PA members must have been in active practice for at least five years immediately preceding their appointment. Neither the public members nor any person within the immediate family of the public members shall be employed as a health professional. 

Board members represent a wide range of specialties and practice areas. Of the professionally licensed members, there is at least one member appointed from each federal congressional district.

Term Requirements

Each member is selected for a three-year term, with the opportunity to participate in a second term, for a total of six years. All persons appointed must be residents of Oregon. The physician and PA members must have been in active practice for at least five years immediately preceding their appointment. Neither the public members nor any person within the public members' immediate family shall be employed as a health professional.