Physician Pathway Act (PPA)

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Physician Pathway Act (PPA)



The recently enacted Physician Pathway Act in Massachusetts is a groundbreaking law designed to address physician shortages in underserved communities. This legislation offers internationally trained physicians (ITPs) an alternative path to licensure, making it easier for them to practice medicine in the United States without having to complete a full U.S. residency program.

 

 

How Massa Viana Law Can Help You Immigrate and Practice Medicine

At Massa Viana Law, we specialize in assisting internationally trained physicians with immigration solutions, guiding them through every step of the process to achieve their American dream. The new Physician Pathway Act creates an alternative path for licensing, which may enable a physician to apply for certain immigration visas not previously available because of the licensing limitation.

 

 

Key Features of the Physician Pathway Act

  1. Limited License – ITPs can apply for a limited license to work in approved healthcare facilities, such as community health centers, federally qualified health centers and hospitals in medically underserved areas.

  2. Supervised Practice – After one to two years of supervised practice, physicians may qualify for a restricted license.

  3. Full Licensure – Upon completing the restricted license period, physicians can obtain a full, unrestricted license to practice medicine in Massachusetts.

     

 

Eligibility Requirements for Internationally Trained Physicians

To qualify for this pathway, ITPs must:

  • Hold a valid medical degree from a medical school recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO).

  • Have completed at least one year of practical training outside the United States.

  • Complete the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) requirements.

  • Provide evidence of English language proficiency.

  • Complete supervised practice in underserved areas for the required timeframe.

 

 

Important Update on Implementation

While the Physician Pathway Act has been signed into law, it is currently undergoing a regulation writing process by the Massachusetts Board of Medicine. This process may take up to one year after the law’s passage to finalize regulations and implementation. We will provide updates as more details become available.

 

 

Why This Matters for Internationally Trained Physicians

This law eliminates one of the largest barriers for ITPs—the need to complete a full U.S. residency program—allowing qualified physicians to:

  • Enter the workforce more quickly.
  • Address critical healthcare shortages in underserved areas.
  • Build long-term medical careers in the U.S.

 

Real Stories

Hear directly from those who have already obtained a green card or citizenship with us

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the licenses granted under the Physician Pathway Act are specific to Massachusetts. Physicians who complete this pathway will receive a Massachusetts medical license, which does not automatically transfer to other states. However, it may make it easier to pursue licensure in other states through reciprocity agreements or additional requirements.

No, the Physician Pathway Act focuses solely on medical licensure requirements. It does not provide immigration benefits or address visa status. Internationally trained physicians must still meet U.S. immigration requirements, which is where Massa Viana Law can assist with visa applications and green card processes.

The Physician Pathway Act does not currently specify a maximum time limit for gaps in medical practice. However, applicants must demonstrate clinical competency, which may involve providing evidence of recent practice or completing supervised training to update their skills. Additional regulations from the Massachusetts Board of Medicine may clarify this requirement as the law is implemented.

If an ITP does not complete the supervised practice requirement, they will not qualify for the restricted or full license. 

Community health centers, federally qualified health centers and hospitals in medically underserved areas.

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