As the U.S. prepares to elect its next president in just a month, Indian-origin medical professionals are urging the incoming administration to prioritize immigration and healthcare reform. Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), emphasized the importance of addressing immigration issues, particularly for physicians from India. In an exclusive interview with PTI, Dr. Kathula outlined key concerns, including healthcare access, visa challenges, technological advancements in medicine, and anti-discrimination efforts.
Founded in 1982, AAPI is the largest ethnic medical organization in the United States, representing over 120,000 Indian-origin physicians. Dr. Kathula highlighted that many of these doctors, despite spending over 15 to 20 years in the U.S., are still on H-1B work visas. He stressed the need for fast-tracking green cards for these professionals to ensure they can continue serving without the constant worry of visa uncertainties. “We have to fast track their green cards to ensure they can live in the U.S. and continue their work without worrying about their visa status,” he said. Many of these physicians work in underserved areas, where local doctors are reluctant to practice.
He explained that the presence of Indian-origin doctors is crucial in such areas, warning that the departure of these professionals would severely disrupt the local healthcare systems. “If they really leave, then the whole healthcare system collapses in some towns. So that’s why we have to really fast-track green cards and prioritize this. Any government that takes over, this is very important,” Dr. Kathula emphasized.
One of his main concerns is that physicians are grouped with other H-1B visa holders, such as those in the tech industry. This categorization makes it harder for doctors to get prioritized in the immigration system. “That’s what makes it difficult. There should be some priority for people who are actually taking care of sick people,” he said, pointing out that one in seven patients in the U.S. is treated by a doctor of Indian origin. The H-1B visa, which allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialized fields, is heavily used by tech companies to recruit employees from countries like India and China. However, Dr. Kathula believes that physicians deserve distinct consideration because of their essential role in healthcare.
The physician shortage in the U.S. is another significant issue that Dr. Kathula believes should be tackled. He noted that while nurse practitioners and physician assistants are filling some gaps, the country still lacks enough doctors in certain areas. He estimates that by 2030, the U.S. will need approximately 125,000 more physicians. “That’s why we need to increase the residency positions, work on medical education, opening more medical schools,” Dr. Kathula added.
Additionally, international medical graduates, who often face hurdles in obtaining licenses and practicing in the U.S., should be given more support to help them integrate into the healthcare system. Dr. Kathula also pointed out that anti-discrimination measures and diversity initiatives should be on the next administration’s agenda. These issues, alongside healthcare reforms and immigration policies, need immediate attention.
With the U.S. Presidential elections set for November 5, the nation will choose between Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump, and Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris. According to Dr. Kathula, the next president should also focus on technological advancements in medicine. This would involve ensuring proper funding for research and supporting innovative care models. “All these things should be given priority by the next government. That’s what AAPI is looking at, and AAPI members are looking at,” he said.
Dr. Kathula expressed that broader healthcare reforms should aim for affordable healthcare, improving the public health infrastructure, economic growth, job creation, and rebuilding vital systems. He stressed that ensuring affordable education and promoting racial and social justice must also be priorities. Alongside these, immigration reform is essential, with a focus on creating a fair system that welcomes skilled workers, particularly those in critical fields like healthcare. “Fair human immigration system should be given priority. Bring people who are skilled workers and it’s important that we fast track their immigration,” he reiterated.
Dr. Kathula, a board-certified hematologist and oncologist based in Ohio, assumed the role of AAPI President in July 2024. Reflecting on the contributions of the Indian diaspora in the U.S., he described their influence across various sectors as “just mind-boggling.” He observed that over the past 30 years, people of Indian origin have made significant contributions to the U.S. economy and society.
He praised AAPI for its role in supporting both the U.S. and India, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization raised over five million dollars and sent thousands of ventilators, oxygen concentrators, and other critical medical supplies to India during the height of the crisis. This demonstrated the strong bonds between the Indian diaspora and their home country, as well as their commitment to global health.
Dr. Kathula also noted the strategic importance of the relationship between India and the U.S. He believes that both countries will continue to strengthen ties, especially in response to shared concerns over China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S., he said, will continue to support India’s role in maintaining security and stability in the area. He also highlighted the role of the Indian diaspora in diplomacy, remarking that their influence will further bolster the partnership between Washington and New Delhi.
“Overall, the trajectory of the India and U.S. relationship under the next administration [in the U.S.] is expected to remain positive, with a continued focus on defence, trade, climate change, technology and shared democratic values,” Dr. Kathula stated. He acknowledged that there could be challenges, particularly around trade disputes or human rights concerns, but he emphasized that the strategic importance of the relationship would ensure ongoing cooperation and growth.
Dr. Kathula urged the next administration to recognize the pivotal role that Indian-origin physicians play in the U.S. healthcare system and to take immediate steps to address the immigration and visa challenges they face. He remains hopeful that the next government will prioritize these reforms to ensure that both countries continue to benefit from the valuable contributions of Indian professionals.
