The challenge of practicing medicine in Massachusetts as an International Medical Graduate (IMG)
In the United States, it is estimated that more than 250,000 foreign-trained healthcare professionals (IMGs, or International Medical Graduates) are underemployed or not practicing their profession.
Workforce development organizations such as the Migration Policy Institute, Welcome Back Initiative, and Healthcare Workforce Coalition have documented that hundreds of thousands of foreign-trained healthcare professionals are underemployed or working outside their field in the U.S.
This is happening despite a growing shortage of healthcare workers.
In Massachusetts, this reality has a particular impact on immigrant communities, including thousands of Latino professionals trained in medicine, nursing, dentistry, and other health fields.
However, not everyone faces the same chances of successfully entering the healthcare system.
Data shows that those most likely to integrate into the workforce are individuals who:
- Have advanced English proficiency
- Access recredentialing or local training programs
- Have professional networks or mentorship
- Can financially sustain long certification processes
For many others, the path can take years or remain incomplete—not due to lack of ability, but because of structural barriers within the licensing system.
Why licenses matter in the healthcare system
In the United States, practicing a healthcare profession requires meeting strict state regulations.
In Massachusetts, licenses are issued by professional boards such as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, and other regulatory bodies.
The goal is to ensure that all professionals meet quality and patient safety standards.
However, this system can also become a barrier for foreign-trained professionals.
A workforce the system is not fully utilizing
In Massachusetts, thousands of immigrant professionals are trained in areas such as:
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Dentistry
- Physical therapy
- Mental health
Many completed their education in their home countries and have significant clinical experience.
However, to practice in the United States, they must:
- Validate their academic credentials
- Pass national or state exams
- Complete additional training programs
- Demonstrate English proficiency
This process can take years and involve significant costs.
In the meantime, many professionals end up working outside their field, representing a loss both for them and for the healthcare system.
An urgent need in the healthcare system
Licensing is not only an individual issue—it is also a public health issue.
The United States faces a growing shortage of healthcare professionals, especially in primary care, mental health, and nursing.
Leveraging the skills of internationally trained professionals could help:
- Improve access to care
- Reduce wait times
- Increase cultural diversity in the healthcare system
- Improve care for Spanish-speaking patients
Studies have shown that patients achieve better outcomes when they receive care in their own language and within culturally responsive environments.
Pathways to practice: options available today
Although the process can be complex, there are pathways for foreign-trained professionals to integrate into the healthcare system in Massachusetts.
Some options include:
1. Credential revalidation
Medical professionals can go through processes with organizations such as the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) to validate their training and apply for medical residencies in the United States.
2. Alternative or partial licenses
Some professionals pursue certifications in related fields while completing their main licensing process, such as:
- Medical assistants
- Health technicians
- Community health workers
3. Professional integration programs
In Massachusetts, there are initiatives that help international professionals navigate the licensing system, including training programs, advising, and financial support.
Where to start if you are a foreign-trained healthcare professional
Resources in Massachusetts for healthcare professionals
If you studied a healthcare career outside the United States and want to practice in Massachusetts, here are key steps and resources:
Medical credential validation
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
Key organization for foreign-trained physicians seeking access to U.S. medical residencies.
https://www.ecfmg.org/
Medical licenses in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
Official requirements to practice medicine in the state.
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-in-medicine
Nursing licenses
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Requirements for nurses, including internationally trained professionals.
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-in-nursing
Credential evaluation
World Education Services (WES)
Evaluation of international academic credentials for use in the U.S.
https://www.wes.org/
Support programs for immigrant professionals
Welcome Back Center Boston
Provides advising, career guidance, and support for reentering the healthcare field.
https://www.wbcenters.org/
General licensing information
Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure
State portal with information on professional licenses.
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-occupational-licensure
Frequently asked questions for international healthcare professionals
Can I practice directly with my foreign degree?
No. In most cases, you must validate your degree and meet additional requirements in the United States.
This process may include:
- Credential evaluation through organizations like World Education Services
- Passing national or state exams
- Meeting English language requirements
- Completing additional studies or residencies in the U.S.
Can I work in the U.S. with my healthcare career?
Yes, but not always immediately in the same professional role.
Many professionals begin in related positions while completing the licensing process, such as:
- Medical assistants
- Health technicians
- Community health workers
These roles allow them to gain experience in the U.S. system and earn income while progressing toward licensure.
What do I need to practice in Massachusetts?
Requirements vary by profession, but generally include:
- Validating your academic credentials
- Meeting state requirements through entities such as the Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure
- Passing professional exams
- Obtaining an official license
In fields like medicine or nursing, additional U.S.-based training may also be required.
More than a process: an opportunity for the community
Access to professional licenses does not only affect individuals—it directly impacts communities.
In a diverse state like Massachusetts, having healthcare professionals who speak Spanish and understand the cultural realities of their patients can make a significant difference in the quality of care.
Facilitating pathways for these professionals is not just an employment issue—it is a public health strategy.
At My Health Fair, we believe this is a critical issue for our community: behind every professional who successfully enters the workforce, there is greater access, trust, and better care for thousands of families.
