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Leading Immigration Law Firm Focuses on Doctor Shortage

14 Jul

Foster leverages immigration practice to address U.S. medical staffing crisis

HOUSTON – July 14, 2015Foster LLP, a leading immigration law firm delivering the full spectrum of U.S. and global immigration solutions, is increasing efforts and resources to focus on the nation’s physician shortage crisis.

In recent years, states across the nation have been seeing an escalation in the demand for physicians, due to a rapidly growing and aging population. A 2015 study commissioned by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), predicts that by the year 2025, the U.S. will face a shortage of 46,000 to 90,000 physicians. Though projecting shortages in both primary and specialty care, the study indicates the largest shortfall will be among specialists.

Foster notes that with every passing year, U.S. health care systems are depending more and more on foreign medical graduates to fill this demand for physicians. Although in high demand, these foreign-born physicians are subject to the U.S.’s demanding medical training requirements and an often cumbersome immigration process. Adding to the confusion, foreign doctors typically apply for either the J–1 or H-1B visa, which are only temporary visas allowing for temporary work authorization.

“With roots going back to 1973, our team at Foster has developed a national reputation for our expertise in this complex area of immigration,” said Avalyn Langemeier, partner, Foster. “Ultimately, our goal is to assist employers in quickly placing doctors where they’re needed most, by ensuring those in the health care industry are aware of the requirements and options available to them.”

With over 13 years of experience in a wide variety of employment and compliance-based immigration matters, Langemeier is leading the firm’s health care immigration practice. She is currently a member of the American Immigration Lawyer’s Association’s (AILA) Health Care Professionals/Physician Committee, where she’s served since 2014. The firm’s health care immigration practice also includes senior attorney, Sandra Dorsthorst; Foster partner and 27-year veteran immigration law practitioner, José Pérez; and Foster partner, Layla Panjwani, who brings over a decade of experience in the representation of foreign medical graduates.

About Foster LLP
Foster LLP is a leading immigration law firm delivering the full spectrum of U.S. and global immigration solutions. Renowned for responsive, customized service, Foster works on behalf of the largest employers worldwide, top emerging and midmarket companies, investors, and individuals and families. Through experience, leadership and technology, Foster’s team solves the most complex immigration matters. Foster never forgets that behind every case there is a person, a family, and their livelihood. Learn more at www.FosterGlobal.com.