Physician Groups Warn Visa Delays Could Impact Patient Care

More than 30 medical organizations, including the ACR^®, urged federal officials to address immigration barriers preventing international medical graduates (IMGs) from lawfully entering or remaining in the U.S.

In an April 8 letter to the Departments of State and Homeland Security, the groups warned that visa delays are forcing medical residents to leave training programs and physicians to stop caring for patients. These delays are impacting IMGs, which make up a quarter of U.S. physicians and are more likely to work in underserved areas where there are ongoing provider shortages and patient access issues.

While the groups recognize the role the agencies play in enhanced screening and more stringent review of certain immigration applications, the letter calls for a national interest exception and faster processing for physician cases. It asks agencies to honor existing timelines, align decisions with academic schedules and avoid prolonged administrative holds once security checks are complete.

ACR and others stressed that keeping qualified physicians in the U.S. health system is critical to protecting patients and maintaining a stable workforce.

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