Author name: IMG Secrets

IMGs Can Now Bypass Residency in Massachusetts | Physicians Pathway Act By 2034, the U.S. might be short by up to 124,000 physicians. That’s like having all the doctors in a mid-sized city just vanish. The biggest pinch is felt in rural and underserved areas, where finding a doctor is already like searching for Wi-Fi in a remote cabin. Massachusetts have joined the list of other states and have done something that could change how International Medical Graduates (IMGs) practice medicine in the U.S. It’s called the Physician Pathway Act, and it means eligible IMGs can skip repeating the residency process in the USA and start practicing as fully licensed doctors in Massachusetts. All they need to do is to work in underserved communities for three years. Let’s break it all down, step by step. https://youtu.be/kyOqcw1M0kA I want to work with Dr. Rajeev Iyer What Is the Physician Pathway Act? So, what exactly is this all about? Even though the state of Massachusetts boasts one of the highest doctor-to-patient ratios, there’s a shortage in rural and underserved areas. Think of small towns where hospitals are understaffed, and patients have to drive hours to see a specialist. To tackle this, Massachusetts introduced the Physician Pathway Act. Here is what it entails:  IMGs can bypass repeating residency in the U.S. They obtain a job in the state of Massachusetts  They get a three-year temporary license to work as a doctor. Requirement? They have to serve in underserved areas for those three years. Once those three years are done, they can apply for a full medical license and work anywhere in Massachusetts—or we can guide them on how to work even in the rest of the U.S. That’s a pretty sweet deal for anyone who’s already spent years training abroad and just wants to get started. Why This Pathway is Great for IMGs If you’re an IMG, you already know the struggle. You’ve put in the time—medical school, residency, experience—and then you come to the U.S.. Starting all over with a U.S. residency can take years, can cost a lot of money for you, and can put you behind on your research endeavors.  The Physician Pathway Act skips all that. Here’s why this law is a breath of fresh air for IMGs: Faster Licensure: Forget waiting years to redo residency—you’ll be practicing medicine in no time. Career Flexibility: Once you’ve done your three years, you’re free to work wherever you like. Community Impact: Those underserved areas need you. You’re not just advancing your career; you’re making a real difference. It’s practical, efficient, and frankly, overdue. Who’s Eligible? Requirements for IMGs This pathway is amazing, but not everyone can jump in. Massachusetts has a few boxes for you to check first: Completed Residency Abroad: You’ll need to have finished your residency in your home country. Relevant Experience: Bonus points if you’ve worked as a fellow or attending physician. USMLE Exams: Generally required, though there are exceptions. You can speak to us for IMG Secrets for details If you tick all these boxes, congrats—you’re already halfway there. How to Apply: Your Step-by-Step Guide Step 1: Find a Hospital in Massachusetts First thing’s first: You’ll need to get a position at a hospital in Massachusetts. Specifically, the hospital must be ACGME-accredited. This step is crucial because the hospital essentially sponsors your temporary license.  Not sure where to start? Reach out to us at IMG Secrets by booking an appointment for one on one guidance or follow us on Youtube, Instagram, Facebook or Linkedin. Step 2: Secure a Three-Year License Once you’ve got a hospital on board, the next step is applying for the three-year license. Step 3: Serve Underserved Areas Now comes the part where you roll up your sleeves and make a real impact. Whether it’s a rural clinic or an inner-city hospital, these are places where your skills will be genuinely appreciated—and desperately needed. Step 4: Apply for a Full State License After your three years are up, it’s time to celebrate! You can now apply for a full state medical license. This opens the door to practicing medicine pretty much anywhere in Massachusetts—and even beyond. Addressing Concerns and Challenges One challenge some IMGs face is getting consistent information. The Massachusetts State Medical Board is still ironing out some details. We will share more information as we learn more. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance from us at IMG Secrets  Landing a position at the right hospital might take time. Be persistent. Maximizing Your Career After the Three-Year License This pathway isn’t just about Massachusetts. Completing the program gives you credibility to apply for jobs in other states too. It’s a great way to kickstart a long and rewarding career in the U.S. Yes, the work might be tough. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. Think of it as a chance to build connections, gain valuable experience, and truly make a difference in people’s lives. Is this the same as Alternate Entry Path? Although this is a kind of a path that is alternate, this is entirely different from the alternate entry path that is offered by all states across multiple specialties. Check information about this in this article by clicking here. Also here is a video that I have made explaining the whole process. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBF9vwVbOLo Conclusion: The Start of Something Big The Physician Pathway Act isn’t just a law—it’s an opportunity. For IMGs, it’s a chance to skip the hurdles and focus on what you do best: providing excellent care. For patients, it’s a lifeline, bringing doctors to the places that need them most. If you’re an IMG with the skills and determination to make a difference, Massachusetts just might be your ticket to a fulfilling medical career. The path is clear. Now it’s time to take that first step. Dr. Rajeev Iyer MBBS, MD, MS, FASA (USA) Associate Professor of Anesthesiology University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the

H-1B Visa Ban for Doctors – Is This Really Happening? When you think about building a medical career in the U.S. as an International Medical Graduate (IMG), it often feels like entering a maze with rules that change mid-game. The H1B visa, is a lifeline for immigrant doctors. It’s the stepping stone to a future for a life in the USA.  But how does this visa work, and what’s its role in shaping the U.S. healthcare system? Let’s unpack everything you need to know, from practical tips to real-world scenarios, all served with a touch of reality and a dash of optimism. https://youtu.be/NSKNBnykA7A The H1B Visa: Why is this so important? The H1B visa is not your average visa—it’s the backbone of how foreign-trained professionals, especially doctors, join the U.S. workforce. But what makes it so critical for IMGs? What It Is: The H1B is a temporary work visa designed for specialized fields like IT, engineering, and medicine. Why It Matters: For IMGs, it’s often the first legal step toward practicing medicine in the U.S. and eventually gaining permanent residency. Key Stats: According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), 85,000 H1B visas are granted annually, of which 75,000 are given to foreign workers and 20,000 are reserved for advanced degree holders. For doctors, particularly those serving rural or underserved areas, this visa can open opportunities otherwise impossible. But, like any good thing, it comes with rules and restrictions. Are International Medical Graduates Essential to U.S. Healthcare? The U.S. has a doctor shortage, and many regulations are changing to bring in IMGs to help complement the scarcity. IMGs also bring unique skills and are successful in all practice areas including clinical work and academics. Filling Underserved Areas Many H1B doctors work in rural areas, which often struggle to attract local talent. Without these doctors, millions of Americans would face reduced access to healthcare. Commitment to Excellence IMGs often go the extra mile, whether completing additional certifications or excelling in high-pressure environments. Their resilience and dedication make them invaluable. The H1B Process: What You Need to Know Navigating the H1B visa process might seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps can help. From securing sponsorship to understanding exemptions, here’s how doctors can navigate this critical process. 1. The Basics: How It Works Navigating the H1B visa process can be quite challenging. Here are the key points you need to know: Sponsorship: You need an employer—a hospital, clinic, or university—to sponsor your visa. Application Timeline: The application period opens annually in April, and slots fill quickly. Lottery System: Due to demand, visas are often allocated via a lottery. This means even highly qualified applicants aren’t guaranteed a spot. Typically IMG doctors dont come under the exempt cap as many of the hospitals hiring IMGs are cap exempt 2. Special Considerations for Doctors While the H1B is competitive, doctors serving underserved areas may qualify for exemptions: Conrad 30 (J-1) Waiver: This is for doctors with a J-1 visa and allows physicians to skip the lottery if they commit to working in a designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) as a J-1 waiver job Cap-Exempt Employers: Universities and nonprofit hospitals often bypass the annual cap, providing more opportunities for IMGs coming on H-1B. 3. Transitioning to a Green Card The H1B visa is a stepping stone, but the ultimate goal for many is permanent residency. Here’s how doctors can make that leap: EB1 Category: For those with extraordinary abilities or significant achievements, this is the fastest route. PERM Labor Certification: A standard pathway where your employer demonstrates that hiring you won’t displace U.S. workers. Patience Is Key: Depending on your country of origin, wait times can stretch into years. Challenges IMGs Face on the H1B Visa Getting an H1B visa is only half the battle. Here are some hurdles you should be prepared for: Uncertain Policies Immigration policies can shift with every new administration. The Trump era brought uncertainty, while the Biden administration’s focus on healthcare professionals has provided some relief. Staying informed is critical. Tied to Your Employer H1B holders can’t easily switch jobs without jeopardizing their visa status. This means your options can feel limited, especially early in your career. Long Green Card Wait Times For doctors from countries like India and China, green card backlogs can mean years of waiting. It’s essential to plan your career with these delays in mind. Practical Tips for IMGs on the H1B Visa For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), securing an H1B visa can be a critical step in advancing their careers in the United States. This process includes several unique challenges and requirements. To help you navigate this journey successfully, here are some practical tips to consider: 1. Plan Ahead Don’t wait until the last minute to secure a sponsor. Research employers who regularly hire H1B doctors and start building connections early. 2. Build a Strong Case Your H1B application isn’t just about your qualifications; it’s about proving your value to the U.S. healthcare system. Highlight unique skills, certifications, or experiences. 3. Stay Updated Immigration laws change often. Subscribe to reliable resources like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) or consult with experienced immigration attorneys. 4. Get Professional Help Feeling stuck or unsure about your next steps? At IMG Secrets, we specialize in helping International Medical Graduates from around the globe achieve their dreams in the U.S. and Canada.  Whether it’s understanding visa requirements, preparing for interviews, or crafting a solid career strategy, we provide tailored support to fast-track your success. Don’t navigate this journey alone, let us help you achieve your medical career goals with confidence. Yes, I want to work with Dr. Rajeev Iyer Conclusion The H1B visa is more than just a document; it’s a gateway to opportunities that can transform your life and the lives of your patients. The process can be frustrating and even discouraging at times, but with the right preparation and mindset, success is absolutely within reach. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember—you don’t have

Did you know that only about less than 5% of students fail the USMLE Step 1 on their first try? That’s an impressive success rate, but it still means that thousands of students are facing one of the most challenging exams of their medical careers. And if you’re gearing up for it, that number might feel a little intimidating. But here’s the thing: It doesn’t have to be that way. With the right strategies, you can absolutely crush your USMLE Step 1 exam in just three months — just like Dr. Rajeev Iyer did. Dr. Iyer passed his Step 1 exam in just three months by following a few key strategies that helped him cut through the noise, stay focused, and use his time effectively. No gimmicks, no shortcuts — just solid, proven advice that actually works. In this post, I’m going to walk you through the 5 game-changing strategies that Dr. Iyer used to succeed, and trust me, these aren’t your typical “study tips” you’ve heard a thousand times before. Let’s dive into the real deal. 1. Maximize Your Study Time: Make Every Minute Count Alright, let’s start with the one thing we all wish we had more of: time. Between clinical rotations, social life, and the occasional Netflix binge, finding time to study for the USMLE Step 1 can feel like an impossible task. But here’s the thing: It’s not about having more time. It’s about making the time you do have count. How Dr. Iyer Did It Study While Eating: Yep, you read that right. Dr. Iyer would whip out his flashcards or study notes while eating lunch or dinner. It’s like multitasking, but in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling overwhelmed. Those 20-30 minutes of eating? Perfect for a quick review session. Exercise and Walk: Don’t think you have to lock yourself in a room to study. Dr. Iyer would take walks around his neighborhood or hit the gym while listening to study podcasts or audio lectures. This way, he could stay active and keep his brain engaged at the same time. Plus, it’s a good excuse to snack without guilt. Make Use of “Dead Time”: Whether you’re on a bus, waiting in line, or even doing laundry, those little pockets of time can add up. Dr. Iyer didn’t waste a minute — he used that dead time to cram in a few quick facts or go over some questions. Tip for You: If you’re struggling to find time, start by looking at your day in chunks. Even 5-10 minutes here and there add up. The key is to be intentional with how you use those minutes. 2. USMLE World: The Ultimate Tool for Success If you’ve started your Step 1 prep, you’ve probably heard about UWorld. It’s the question bank everyone swears by — and for good reason. But here’s the thing: It’s not enough to just do questions. It’s about how you approach those questions. Dr. Iyer’s Strategy Tutor Mode: Don’t just do UWorld questions and mark them as “right” or “wrong”. Dr. Iyer took it a step further and used the Tutor Mode. This mode allows you to review the questions in depth and understand why the answer is correct. It’s all about learning the reasoning, not just memorizing facts. And trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you encounter those tricky questions on test day. Consistent Practice: Dr. Iyer didn’t wait until the last minute to tackle UWorld. He made it a habit to do a set number of questions daily — 40 to 50 questions, to be exact. By the time the exam rolled around, he had built up a solid foundation of knowledge and got a feel for the types of questions asked. Why It Works UWorld helps you build test-taking stamina, fine-tune your knowledge, and learn how to approach tricky questions. Plus, the more questions you do, the better you get at spotting patterns and understanding what the examiners are really testing. Tip for You: Make UWorld your best friend. Set a goal to complete 40-50 questions a day. Remember, it’s not about just answering them — it’s about really understanding the explanations. 3. Notes, Notes, Notes: The Power of Personalization Some people swear by writing down every word. Others type it out on their laptops. Dr. Iyer found that the act of writing personalized notes was a game-changer in his prep. Why Notes Matter Making It Your Own: Dr. Iyer didn’t just jot down whatever was in the textbook. He made his notes his own. Whether it was diagrams, color coding, or unique mnemonics, he turned his notes into personalized learning tools. Active Recall: Writing your own notes forces you to process the material. When you go back to review, you’re not just passively reading; you’re engaging your brain and reinforcing what you’ve learned. This helps with long-term retention — and trust me, you’ll need that when you’re facing the exam. Focus on High-Yield Topics: Don’t waste time writing everything down. Dr. Iyer focused on the high-yield, high-impact topics that are more likely to show up on the exam. You don’t need to rewrite the entire textbook — just focus on the stuff that matters.   Why This Works Writing things out forces your brain to process and understand information. The more you interact with the material, the better you’ll remember it. Plus, creating your own notes allows you to highlight the concepts that matter most. Tip for You: Create personalized notes and focus on active recall. Add in diagrams or charts to make things stick. And, remember to review them regularly. 4. Study Partners: A Game-Changer for Your Preparation If you’ve been studying solo, it might be time to consider a study partner. While it might seem like a hassle, having someone to quiz you can make a huge difference. How Dr. Iyer Used His Wife as a Study Partner Random Quizzes: Dr. Iyer’s wife would quiz him on random topics, challenging him to explain concepts.