Extending Conrad State 30 Program to Boost Physician Access in Underserved Areas
This law reauthorizes an immigration program allowing foreign physicians to work in US areas facing medical staff shortages. The changes aim to increase the number of available doctors by modifying permanent residency application procedures and introducing employment protections. The legislation is designed to improve access to healthcare services in medically underserved regions.
Key points
The Conrad State 30 program, which places doctors in healthcare shortage areas, is extended for three years from the date of enactment.
Physicians working in these areas will be permitted to file for permanent residency (Green Card) before completing their full service requirement.
New contract requirements are mandated, including specifying on-call hours, malpractice insurance details, and prohibiting non-compete clauses.
The annual quota of waivers available to states can be increased above 30 if utilization rates were high in the previous fiscal year.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_4942
Sponsor: Rep. Schneider, Bradley Scott [D-IL-10]
Process start date: 2023-07-26