HHS Targets J-1 Visa Waivers
To Most Needy Communities
December 19, 2003 - The Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS) announced Dec. 10 new
guidelines for the J-1 visa waiver program. Under the
new guidelines, HHS will only process applications from facilities
in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) with a score
of 14 or higher. Previously, applications were processed from
any HPSA, regardless of score. The intention of the policy
change is "to target communities and populations in the
greatest need for primary care and mental health services."
Eligible sites must also be defined as a health center (under
Section 330 of the Public Health Service Act), a rural health
clinic (under sections 1102 and 1871 of the Social Security
Act), or a Native American/Alaskan Native tribal medical facility
(under the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance
Act).
Foreign physicians who participate in graduate medical education
under J-1 visas individuals must return to their country of
nationality for at least two years following the completion
of their training. The two-year requirement may be waived
under certain circumstances, including a commitment to serve
for at least 3 years in a HPSA or Medically Underserved Area
(MUA) [see Washington
Highlights, Dec.
20, 2002].
Information:
Jonathan Fishburn, Director, Research, Education and Veterans' Legislative Affairs
AAMC Office of Governmental Relations
jfishburn@aamc.org
(202) 828-0525
Get Washington Highlights
in your Inbox!
| 
