Under the new law, internationally trained physicians can practice under a mentor at a participating community health center or hospital instead of entering residency, according to a Dec. 9 news release. They will spend three to six years completing a mentorship while treating underserved patients, then will be able to pursue full licensure. Some physicians can also apply for a restricted license to practice in shortage areas before being eligible for a full license. They are still required to pass all certification exams.
The exact regulations within the law could take up to a year to implement and finalize before any eligible immigrant physicians can enroll in the program.
Currently, internationally trained physicians are required to repeat residency training in order to be licensed in the U.S. and residency slots are limited.
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