ACR-Supported Conrad 30 Act Introduced

American College of Radiology (ACR)-supported bipartisan legislation was introduced Feb. 25, in the U.S. House and Senate to extend a program to help strengthen the physician workforce. The Conrad State 30 and Physician Access Reauthorization Act was originally created in 1994, to give states the ability to waive the requirement that foreign medical graduates must return to their home country for two years after they complete their training in the U.S. To qualify, the physicians must agree to practice in a medically underserved area for at least three years following completion of their residency.  

U.S. Reps. David Valadao (R-CA), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Don Bacon (R-NE) and Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) introduced H.R.1585; Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the companion bill, S. 709. 

The introduced legislation would extend authorization of the program for three years and create a process to gradually increase the total number of waivers beyond 30 per state.

This legislation is one policy solution aimed at addressing ongoing physician shortages and strengthening the healthcare workforce in areas where it is needed most.

For more information or if you have questions, contact Ashley Walton, ACR Government Affairs Director.