Image Credit: USCIS.gov
New York: As the United States gears up for its presidential election in a month, the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) has called on the next administration to prioritize immigration and healthcare reforms.
The organization, which represents over 120,000 physicians of Indian origin, is urging the White House to fast-track green cards for medical professionals from India, many of whom have been on H-1B work visas for over 15-20 years.
The current visa restrictions have forced several Indian-origin doctors, many of whom are working in underserved areas across the country, to continue facing uncertainties about their immigration status.
“We have to fast-track their green cards to ensure they can live in the US and continue their work without worrying about their visa status, ” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of AAPI.
He warned that the healthcare system in some towns could collapse if these physicians were forced to leave due to visa issues.
Dr. Kathula also highlighted the importance of addressing the physician shortage in the US, estimating a need for 125,000 additional doctors by 2030.
He emphasized that increasing residency positions and opening more medical schools should be part of the solution.
Kathula concluded with a broader call for action, stating, “Fair human immigration systems should be given priority. Bring people who are skilled workers, and it’s important that we fast-track their immigration.”
Additionally, the AAPI president underscored the need for diversity and anti-discrimination measures, alongside advancements in technology and research in medicine, as key priorities for the next administration.
His appeal reflects the AAPI’s hope that the next administration will foster better healthcare infrastructure, improved access to medical education, and increased contributions of the Indian diaspora to US society.