Alabama has a population of around 4.8 million people being served by around 10,614 active in-state doctors – both general physicians and specialists.

These statistics from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) point to a crucial need for more doctors in the Yellowhammer state.

“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 state is working to meet that need. On Wednesday, July 31, the state’s Medical Association and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners announced that applications are being accepted for an innovative program designed to increase the state’s number of doctors.

Through the Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program established under the Physician Workforce Act signed by Gov. Kay Ivey in 2023, medical school graduates who did not match into residency programs can gain the valuable experience and skills they need while working under the supervision of licensed doctors. Ten other states have similar programs.

Qualified applicants will receive a permit to practice medicine under an Alabama-licensed physician, valid for one year and renewable for an additional year. Williams, a Montgomery-based psychiatrist, said the Bridge Year program is a key part of the Physician Workforce Act and is crucial toward ensuring more Alabamians have access to the physician-led, team-based care they need.

Oftentimes, because of limited slots, medical graduates may not match into residency programs.

“The Bridge Year program will help alleviate Alabama’s physician shortage and provide these graduates with additional training as they reapply for residency,” noted William Perkins, executive director of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners.

The Medical Association championed passage of the Physician Workforce Act during the 2023 legislative session. In addition to the Bridge Year program, the Physician Workforce Act streamlines the process for out-of-state doctors to practice in Alabama by removing the in-person testing requirement for medical licensure. It also allows international medical graduates in training to apply for a medical license a year earlier.

The Physician Workforce Act was strongly supported by many hospitals and medical specialty groups, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the University of South Alabama, the Free Clinics Association, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, and Federally Qualified Health Centers.

Visit www.albme.gov for more information about the Bridge Year Graduate Physician Program.