On March 18, the department announced it would suspend routine processing of immigrant and nonimmigrant visas at embassies and consulates worldwide due to the coronavirus pandemic, Medscape reports.
But the scale of the pandemic in the U.S. had made a healthcare worker shortage likely. Many states, such as New York and California, have been urging retired healthcare workers to come back to help hospitals respond to the surge in COVID-19 patients who need care.
Last week, American Medical Association called on the State Department to expand the physician workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic by opening visa processing for international physicians. The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates also appealed to the State Department to open up visa processing, according to Medscape.
The department lifted the suspension on visa processing for medical professionals from abroad who have approved U.S. nonimmigrant or immigrant visa petitions or a certificate of eligibility in an approved exchange visitor program. These individuals can request visa appointments at their nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate.
More articles on workforce:
Atrius Health furloughs nonclinical employees, defers 20 percent of pay of others
California launches Health Corps to recruit thousands of workers amid COVID-19 pandemic
HCA, Amazon among companies with most job openings
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
