Alabama launches new physician training program to address doctor shortage

The Medical Association of the State of Alabama and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners announced on Wednesday that applications are now being accepted for an innovative program designed to increase the number of doctors in the state.

The Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program, established under the Physician Workforce Act signed by Governor Kay Ivey in 2023, allows medical school graduates who did not match into residency programs to gain valuable experience and skills under the supervision of licensed physicians. Alabama joins 10 other states with similar initiatives.

Qualified applicants will receive a permit to practice medicine under an Alabama-licensed physician, valid for one year and renewable for an additional year.

“There is a growing shortage of physicians in Alabama, leading to delays in patient care,” said Dr. Amanda Williams, President of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. “The Bridge Year program is a key part of the Physician Workforce Act and a crucial step toward ensuring more Alabamians have access to the physician-led, team-based care they need.”

“There are many reasons medical graduates may not match into residency programs, often due to limited residency slots,” said William Perkins, Executive Director of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners. “The Bridge Year program will help alleviate Alabama’s physician shortage and provide these graduates with additional training as they reapply for residency.”

The Medical Association championed passage of the Physician Workforce Act during the 2023 legislative session. In addition to the Bridge Year program, the Physician Workforce Act streamlines the process for out-of-state physicians to practice in Alabama by removing an in-person testing requirement for medical licensure and allows international medical graduates to apply for a medical license a year earlier during their training.

The Physician Workforce Act garnered support from numerous organizations, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the University of South Alabama, the Free Clinics Association, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and various medical specialty groups.

For more information on the Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program, visit www.albme.gov.