Story perspectives

Rising H-1B Fees Threaten Rural Healthcare Access

10/24/2025

50 10

Summary

Story summary

Dr. Mahesh Anantha, an interventional cardiologist in Batesville, Arkansas, says immigrant doctors are essential to rural healthcare.
About 25% of US doctors are foreign-trained, with many serving in underserved areas.
Recent actions by U.S. President Donald Trump would raise H-1B fees to $100,000, alarming about 50,000 Indian-trained doctors.
The American Medical Association warns the higher fee could deter hospitals from hiring H-1B workers, reducing access to care.

1 of 1

Story summary

Dr. Mahesh Anantha, an interventional cardiologist in Batesville, Arkansas, says immigrant doctors are essential to rural healthcare.
About 25% of US doctors are foreign-trained, with many serving in underserved areas.
Recent actions by U.S. President Donald Trump would raise H-1B fees to $100,000, alarming about 50,000 Indian-trained doctors.
The American Medical Association warns the higher fee could deter hospitals from hiring H-1B workers, reducing access to care.