Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced legislation addressing the critical shortage of healthcare providers in the United States by easing the entry of qualified immigrant doctors, nurses, and health professionals into the workforce.
Along with Congressman Adam Smith, Krishnamoorthi presented two bills: the Immigrants in Nursing and Allied Health Act and the Internationally Trained Physicians Assistance Act.
These bills aim to eliminate obstacles related to licensing, training, and finances that currently hinder immigrants residing in the US from practicing in healthcare despite their qualifications.
Krishnamoorthi emphasized, "Skilled doctors, nurses, and other health professionals should have the opportunity to put their training and expertise to work caring for patients."
He added that the legislation would address unnecessary barriers for immigrants entering healthcare, strengthening the system and expanding access in communities facing shortages.
A 2022 study by the Migration Policy Institute noted that 2.1 million college-educated immigrants are unemployed or underemployed in the US.
Meanwhile, the US faces a growing healthcare workforce deficit, with the Association of American Medical Colleges forecasting a shortfall of up to 48,000 primary care physicians by 2034.
nursing demand will require hiring around 200,000 nurses to meet patient needs and replace retirees.
The Immigrants in Nursing and Allied Health Act proposes grants for training, licensing, certification, and case management programs to assist immigrant healthcare workers.
It also seeks to make the National Health Service Corps accessible to non-US-citizen immigrants and covers nursing plus allied health professions such as dental hygienists, dietitians, medical technologists, and therapists.
The Internationally Trained Physicians Assistance Act targets immigrant doctors with medical degrees from outside the US.
This bill encourages states to create temporary licensing programs allowing internationally trained physicians to practise under supervision while completing US certification.
It guarantees residency slots in medically underserved communities and offers grants to cover costs like exam preparation, certification, English classes, and case management for doctors requiring financial support.
Congressman Smith stated, "Thousands of skilled nurses, doctors, and health professionals in this country face wasted expertise due to unrecognised credentials and licensure barriers."
He noted the healthcare system is strained with increasing patient wait times, and this bill package will enable immigrants to serve their communities while reinforcing the health system.
Several organisations have endorsed the bills, including the International Medical Graduates Academy, Seattle Indian Health Board, and Talent Beyond Boundaries.
