Petition supporting let foreign-trained doctors fill our doctor shortage

America is in a healthcare crisis. In 2021, there was a shortfall of 37,000 physicians, hitting rural and underserved areas the hardest. Patients in these communities often wait weeks—or even months—for care, putting their health at risk.

 

Time-limited provisional licenses for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) can help fill this gap. These licenses would allow highly trained IMGs to practice under supervision while meeting the requirements for a full medical license.

 

Many of these doctors have world-class training comparable to U.S. medical school graduates. But outdated policies prevent them from joining the healthcare workforce even as demand grows. Granting provisional licenses would help more patients get care—without sacrificing quality or safety.

 

As demand for healthcare grows, we need every qualified professional on the frontlines. Provisional licenses let IMGs contribute immediately while under supervision. It’s a way to tap into an underutilized pool of talent and significantly strengthen the health care system.