I strongly support the proposed Provisional License pathway for foreign-trained physicians.

The U.S.—including Virginia—is facing a growing physician shortage, with projections showing a deficit of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, particularly in rural and primary care areas. Foreign-trained physicians represent a ready, untapped talent pool to help close this gap—not in the future, but now.

These physicians bring medical expertise, deep cultural competence, and linguistic skills that reflect and serve the growing diversity of Virginia’s communities. Research consistently shows that patient outcomes improve when cultural and linguistic barriers are removed—trust increases, adherence improves, and recovery accelerates.

Many of these physicians have also practiced under resource-limited conditions, developing resilience, innovation, and efficiency—traits our healthcare system urgently needs amid ongoing staffing shortages.

The benefits extend beyond patient care. Immigrant professionals who feel supported by their employers demonstrate strong loyalty and long-term commitment, reducing costly turnover in hospitals and clinics. They also come with substantial clinical experience, needing minimal ramp-up time to contribute at a high level.

And the data tells a larger story:

According to Harvard Business Review, while immigrants make up only 14% of the U.S. population, they own nearly 20% of new businesses and are behind 45% of Fortune 500 companies. In fact, four in five founders or top execs at billion-dollar startups are first- or second-generation immigrants. These companies grow faster, survive longer than those founded by natives, and contribute trillions to our economy.

Foreign-trained physicians are no different. With the right support, they will fuel innovation, stability, and long-term growth in our healthcare sector—just as immigrant entrepreneurs have done across industries.

This is not just a licensing proposal. It’s a strategic investment in Virginia’s health, equity, and economic development. I respectfully urge the Board to advance this essential policy.

Trân trọng,

Mary Righi, MPH