Ryan Announces Internet Access To Database Of Licensed Professionals

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced a feature on the worldwide web which makes available state licensing records held by doctors, nurses, cosmetologists and 43 other professional groups.

Information on all licensees of the Department of Professional Regulation (DPR) can be found on the Internet, 24 hours a day at www.dpr.state.il.us/.

"This is an excellent addition to the State of Illinois home page," Ryan said. "The information provided on the 600,000 professionals actively licensed in Illinois will allow consumers to make informed decisions, from choosing a dentist to getting prescription information."

Internet users may quickly and easily search for licenses by either the individual's name or license number. Information provided on individuals includes name, city, state, the date the license was originally issued, expiration date of the license, the license status and any disciplinary action.

License "look up" is one way DPR is offering "Express Access" to information and services on its Internet home page.

"My top priority is to become more user-friendly for the professionals we regulate and the citizens they serve," said Leonard A. Sherman, Director of DPR. "Hospitals, insurance companies, law enforcement agencies and other institutions no longer have to write our agency, or spend time and resources calling long distance, in order to collect vital information. Instead, they may now reach us instantly, day or night, to receive the information they need," he said.

Also available on the Department of Professional Regulation's Web site is: