This program increases access to quality health care in DRA communities by using a J-1 visa waiver to allow foreign physicians trained in the United States to work in areas with a shortage of health professionals.
From 2019 to 2021, the DRA sponsored 440 physicians across the region, with 47% of placements occurring in Alabama and Louisiana. Twenty-five percent of DRA-sponsored doctors work in a primary care role, with the remainder working across more than 18 specialties.
How to Apply
The Delta Doctors program allows nondomestic physicians who are trained in this country to work in health professional shortage areas or medically underserved areas for three years. The program is not a residency program, nor is the Delta Regional Authority able to assist in the placement of nondomestic medical students into residency programs. Physicians must practice at worksites located within DRA’s congressionally mandated footprint.
If you are interested in submitting an application, please review the Program Overview Packet. For your convenience, the individual program documents are available for download below.
