Physician training program launched to help reduce doctor shortage

MONTGOMERY — As a doctor shortage continues to effect the quality of life for many Alabamians, two medical organizations have come together to address the drop in available medical care.

The Medical Association of the State of Alabama and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners are accepting applications for a physician training program designed to grow the number of doctors in the state.

Established under the Physician Workforce Act in 2023, the Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program allows medical school graduates who did not match into residency programs to gain experience and skills under the supervision of licensed physicians.

“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.”

William Perkins, executive director of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, said the program will help medical graduates and the state.

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

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

The Medical Association worked to get the Physician Workforce Act passed 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.

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