Delays in a federal visa waiver program are putting hundreds of foreign-trained doctors at risk of leaving the United States, threatening care in underserved areas, as reported by CNN citing KFF Health News.
The program, run by the Department of Health and Human Services, allows physicians on J-1 visas to remain in the US if they commit to working in shortage areas.
Delays in visa program threaten placement of hundreds of doctors https://t.co/T2Q2ZKBppr
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The report said a backlog of applications has slowed approvals, with many cases pending since late 2025. Immigration attorneys warned doctors may be forced to leave if approvals are not completed before a July 30 deadline.
According to experts, hospitals in rural and low-income communities rely heavily on these physicians. A new $100,000 H-1B visa fee under Donald Trump has added further strain, making it difficult for employers to rehire them.
Medical groups warned the delays could worsen staffing shortages, leaving vulnerable patients without timely care.
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