Licensed Physicians from Mexico Program

California enacted a significant piece of legislation, the Licensed Physicians from Mexico Program, to address the pronounced shortage of Spanish-speaking physicians in the state. This bill allows Mexican-trained doctors to practice in California, a crucial development for the state’s Latino population, which accounts for 40% of residents but only 6% of licensed physicians. This shortage is particularly acute in rural areas, such as the Central Coast and Central Valley, where many agricultural workers reside. Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas has tackled this issue by partnering with health officials in California and Mexico to recruit Mexican doctors for community health centers serving underserved populations, including those in Fresno and Kern counties. Currently, 24 Mexican doctors specializing in pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, internal medicine, and family medicine are contributing their skills to these communities after receiving approval from the Medical Board of California. If this pilot program demonstrates success, there is potential for expansion. Dr. Maximiliano Cuevas, Chief Executive Officer of Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas, acknowledges that while this program may not fully resolve the physician shortage, it represents a meaningful advancement in addressing the healthcare needs of Californian communities.