States Ease Licensing Requirements for Foreign-Trained Physicians to Address Doctor Shortages

Since 2023, at least nine states have dropped the requirement for internationally trained physicians (“ITPs”) to complete North American .accredited residency programs, according to the Federation of State Medical Boards. More than a dozen other states are considering similar measures to streamline the licensure process for ITPs. These changes aim to address physician shortages, particularly in underserved areas, by allowing ITPs to practice through alternative pathways such as provisional licenses or employment-based routes. While many states still require ITPs to work under supervision or in specific geographic areas, many also provide pathways to full licensure, offering a more efficient path to licensure while ensuring ITPs meet appropriate qualifications.