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Mexican doctors to staff California clinics

A new state law permits doctors without U.S. licenses to work at nonprofit clinics, setting a precedent other states may follow.

By Myrle Croasdale, amednews staff. Jan. 20, 2003.

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In what looks to be a first in the United States, California is allowing 30 physicians and 30 dentists from Mexico to bypass its medical licensure system and practice in the state.

The Mexican doctors will work under a three-year, nonrenewable license at designated nonprofit clinics as soon as July 1, if money can be secured for the program.

The pilot is being touted as a short-term measure to address the need of the state's 950,000 Mexican agricultural workers, few of whom have access to any physician, let alone one who speaks Spanish.

The California Medical Assn., while acknowledging this need, said bringing in Mexican doctors to treat Mexican citizens in the United States undermines California's licensing system.

"We should have a level playing field, with one criterion for licensing professionals, so that California residents know that their doctor is qualified," said Anmol S. Mahal, MD, vice chair of the CMA board of trustees and a leader of the organization's opposition to the bill.

Bob McElderry, associate director of the CMA's Center for Government, said the bill creates a two-tiered licensing structure. "We're changing the nature of the licensure process. By not requiring the same exams and residency programs, we're raising questions about the minimum qualifications necessary to treat patients. ... We're lowering the bar."

CMA officials also expressed concern that other states with large immigrant populations, such as Texas, soon may follow California's lead.