ACR Supports Effort to Prevent Worsening Workforce Shortages

Members of Congress are speaking up about a policy that could make doctor shortages even worse. U.S. Reps. Yvette Clarke (D-NY) and Michael Lawler (R-NY) brought together 98 bipartisan representatives and senators to send a communication to Kristi Noem, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. They urged DHS to provide an exception to a $100,000 fee for employers who petition for new H1 B visas in the healthcare sector. The administration created this new fee last September for certain H1 B petitions.

ACR® supports this effort because many hospitals already struggle to hire enough radiologists and other healthcare providers. The College asserts the country relies on international physicians and a strong healthcare workforce is needed to care for an aging population.

ACR previously recommended flexibility in visa rules for healthcare workers so they can continue serving patients. The College joined almost 50 medical organizations in supporting this congressional effort.

For additional information, contact Ashley Walton, ACR Government Affairs Director.