Applications for licensure shall be expedited by the board's licensure division provided the applicant submits an affidavit stating that:

1. (1) the applicant intends to practice in a rural community as determined by the Office of Rural Health Initiatives; or

2. (2) the applicant:

   1. (A) has requested and is eligible for an immigration visa waiver as described by Section 12.0127 of the Texas Health and Safety Code; and
   2. (B) intends to practice medicine in a medically underserved area or health professional shortage area designated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services that has a shortage of physicians.

Source Note:The provisions of this §163.13 adopted to be effective January 6, 2002, 26 TexReg 10865; amended to be effective November 30, 2003, 28 TexReg 10480.