Impact of Immigration Restrictions on the Healthcare Workforce in the United States

Overview

This study evaluates the effects of a complete immigration ban on healthcare professionals from 19 countries on the US healthcare workforce. It presents data on the inflow of physicians and nurses from these countries over the past decade.

Background

The recent immigration ban enacted by the US federal government has raised concerns regarding its impact on the healthcare workforce. Understanding the trends in immigration of healthcare professionals is crucial.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Annual physician inflow from banned countries increased from 350 in 2010 to 459 in 2023.
• Annual nurse inflow from banned countries rose from 189 in 2010 to 368 in 2022.
• In 2023, 2.15% of all US physicians and 1.41% of all US nurses were from banned countries.
• Counties with at least 1 physician from a banned country were more likely to be designated as primary care Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA).
• Counties with at least 1 nurse from a banned country had a higher proportion of nurses from these countries (14.14%).

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate that the immigration ban may exacerbate existing healthcare workforce shortages, particularly in underserved areas. Healthcare policymakers should consider the implications of such restrictions on the availability of healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

The immigration ban has led to a notable increase in the inflow of healthcare professionals from affected countries, which may influence the overall healthcare workforce dynamics in the US.

Related Resources & Content

1. Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), State Health Coverage for Immigrants and Implications for Health Coverage and Care, 2024 -- State Health Coverage for Immigrants
2. JAMA Network Open, Trends in Emergency Department Visits Among Undocumented Patients, 2025 -- Trends in Emergency Department Visits
3. Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), Children in Immigrant Families: Key Facts on Health Coverage and Care, 2024 -- Children in Immigrant Families
4. conexiant — H-1B Sponsorship of Surgeons Rises
5. HRSA Reports on Health Professional Shortage Areas
6. NRMP Releases Results of the 2026 Main Residency Match
7. H-1B Visa Program and Implications for Health Care